Owen Sound’s Santa Claus Parade Kicks Off Holiday Season This Saturday

UPDATE: The holiday season is officially set to launch in Owen Sound with the annual Santa Claus Parade and the Festival of Northern Lights opening this Saturday, November 15, 2023. The festivities begin at 5 p.m. as families gather for a vibrant parade that promises to be a magical kickoff to the Christmas season.

This year marks the 80th Annual Santa Claus Parade, taking place through the River District. The parade’s theme, Memory Lane – A Trip Back to 1945, will showcase floats inspired by the inaugural year of the event, celebrating the spirit of joy and nostalgia. Community organizations and businesses will participate, featuring a spectacular array of floats and marching bands.

The Kiwanis Club of Owen Sound encourages participants to embody the essence of 1945 through their creative designs and performances. Along the parade route, post office helpers will be collecting letters for Santa, while volunteers gather donations for the Salvation Army Food Bank.

Following the parade, the Festival of Northern Lights will officially open at the farmers’ market, with celebrations starting at 6 p.m.. Attendees can enjoy hot chocolate, cookies, and a lively dance party. The lights will be illuminated at 7 p.m., as the community comes together to witness the transformation of the downtown into a winter wonderland.

Jamie Walpole, the festival chair, expressed excitement for another season, stating, “We want everybody to join us to help turn them on.” This year’s festival will run nightly until January 11, from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., featuring approximately 170 light displays, including returning favorites like the Vortex light tunnel and the new Chi-Cheemaun display.

In a notable change, the festival will not install the artificial tree this year due to its deteriorating condition, as organizers explore options to secure a replacement for next year. Walpole humorously noted, “We could use a little bit warmer weather as we finish setting up this week,” while expressing hope for a picturesque layer of snow to enhance the festive atmosphere.

Other attractions include the River District’s Holiday Magic, starting at 4 p.m., and the Hockey Fest 2025, which runs Thursday through Saturday. The community is also invited to participate in the Sick Shot ball hockey tournament in memory of Josh Olynyk, occurring on Saturday from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m..

Additionally, the Kiwanis Club will sell fresh-cut Christmas trees for the 75th consecutive year, with sales starting Friday and running through the holiday season. Proceeds will benefit the Kiwanis Music Festival.

Be sure to join the excitement this Saturday as Owen Sound lights up for the holidays!