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Santa's Parade of Lights
Stratford, ON
Illuminated floats along the Avon River shoreline.
About
Experience the magic of Santa's Parade of Lights, a cherished annual tradition in Stratford, Ontario. Witness a dazzling procession of illuminated and creatively decorated floats winding along the scenic Avon River. This beloved event, recognized as one of Southern Ontario's premier Santa Claus parades, promises an evening of festive cheer for the whole family.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, community members
Vibe
Festive, magical, community-oriented
Energy Level
Low to medium (walking along route)
Budget
Free To Attend (Float Fees Apply For Participants)
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Medium (outdoor event, dependent on clear skies)
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
Float fees apply: $50 for community groups, $100 for corporate groups.
Duration
1.5 hours
Ages
Suitable for all ages, with special consideration for young children.
Schedule
The parade commences at 5 p.m. and concludes at 6:30 p.m. Floats begin setup between 3:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. The marshalling zone is located from William Street at Waterloo Street to Hillcrest Drive and William Street. The parade front begins moving at 4:45 p.m., with Santa's arrival anticipated around 6 p.m.
Featured Performers
- Santa Claus
Organizer
Stratford and District Saddle Club, Bethel Pentecostal Church, and the City of Stratford
Practical Information
Parking
Parking is available at the Tom Patterson Theatre, the Lower Queens lot, and Upper Queens Park. The William Allman Arena parking lot is accessible off North Street and is reserved for hockey patrons.
Accessibility
https://www.stratford.ca/en/inside-city-hall/accessibility.aspx
Pet Policy
No pets allowed on the parade route.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the parade route, especially near popular intersections or landmarks like the Festival bridge.
- Check the parade map for the best vantage points and consider the route's end near the Tom Patterson Theatre for easier departure.
- Dress warmly in layers, as December evenings can be chilly, and bring blankets for added comfort while waiting for the parade to begin.
- Utilize the extended hours of the Stratford Transit On Demand service to avoid parking hassles and enjoy a stress-free commute to and from the event.
- Review the float setup and marshalling times if you are participating or interested in seeing the preparations behind the scenes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the parade route?
The parade route begins at Hillcrest Drive and William Street, proceeds east along William Street to Lakeside Drive North, crosses the Festival bridge, and heads west along Lakeside Drive, concluding at the Tom Patterson Theatre.
Will items be handed out from the floats?
No, for safety reasons, floats will not be handing out any items to the public.
Can I walk into the parade route?
No, public entry into the parade route is prohibited for safety reasons.
What are the float registration details?
Float registration opens on October 21, 2024, and closes on November 22, 2024. There are fees of $50 for community groups and $100 for corporate groups.
What time should I arrive?
Road closures begin at 3 p.m., and the parade starts at 5 p.m. Arriving early is recommended to find a good viewing spot, especially as the marshalling zone and route fill up.