Newspaper staff
The Sarnia Santa Claus Parade will once again be a driving event this year.
“We just didn’t want to compromise the safety of the parade,†said Bob Marks of Sarnia Kinsmen, who made the difficult decision to host the beloved tradition at Lambton College for a second year as a precaution in the event of pandemic.
“I know there have been great concerts and events, but everyone has been vetted [for proof of vaccine] or tested, â€he said.
“We just felt that large crowds would be too dangerous on the streets.”
The parade will take place on Saturday, November 27 between 4:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m., with floats remaining in place and spectators watching from their passing vehicles.
“No one gets out of their car; they just drive slowly and watch, â€Marks said, adding that last year’s event was a huge success with over 3,500 vehicles.
“It went so well – we were really, really surprised.”
This year’s theme is “Support Our Local Food Banks,†as organizers encourage donations of non-perishable food, hygiene products and cash. Canada Post will be on hand to pick up the letters to Santa Claus.
Marks added that efforts are being made to help traffic move more easily this year, including right turns only. Float submissions will have capacity limits and must meet COVID-19 regulations, including masks and distancing.
Last year some $ 25,000 in donations were raised, Marks said.
“We are already receiving requests from participants,†he said. “Including some of the bigger ones that people are always looking forward to.”
