Santa Claus is coming to town next month for Oakville’s annual parade!

Santa Claus is coming to town! Join Santa and friends for the 76th anniversary of the annual Oakville Santa Claus Parade!

Mark your calendar for Saturday, November 16 at 9 a.m. and join us in downtown Oakville for this community celebration. This year’s theme is ‘merry and bright’! 

Oakville residents are encouraged to dress up in their favourite holiday attire and take the free Oakville Transit Santa shuttle from the Oakville GO Station to the Trafalgar Park Community Centre parking lot, running every five to 10 minutes starting at 8 a.m. The parade begins at 9 a.m., so plan ahead to get a spot along the parade route and take in the sights and sounds of the creative floats. 

Sponsorship information 

The parade is a true community event that relies on the support of residents, local businesses and volunteers to bring it to life each year. The town is seeking sponsorships and accepting financial donations to ensure the success of this popular event that brings the community together. Amounts higher than $20 will receive a tax receipt. 

Float and volunteer information 

The parade is also accepting applications for floats, walking groups, marching bands, and volunteers for costumed characters and more. The application deadline is November 6, 2024. The Best Overall Float will receive free entry in the 2025 parade.

Colouring contest

Artists are invited to enter our colouring contest for a chance to ride with Mrs. Claus, who will once again be leading the Oakville Santa Claus Parade as the Grand Marshall on November 16. Download the colouring sheet (pdf), created by local cartoonist Steve Nease, or pick one up at any of the town’s community centres or Oakville Public Library locations and email a picture of the entry to events@oakville.ca. The contest closes on November 8, 2024, at 4 p.m. 

Children must be 10 years old to ride with Mrs. Claus in the parade. 

For more details about sponsorship, applications, the colouring contest and the event, visit the Oakville Santa Claus Parade page.

Background

• The Oakville Santa Claus Parade is celebrating its 76th anniversary this year.
• The first parade was organized in 1948 by Bill Hughes, then President of the Junior Chamber of Commerce. The idea originated to encourage business in downtown Oakville. 
• This annual event is organized by the Town of Oakville. 
• The planning committee is led by Councillor Scott Xie, committee co-chair, with support from Councillor Cathy Duddeck co-chair.

Quotes

"The Oakville Santa Claus Parade is one of my favourite events that the whole community rallies behind each year to make it successful. Council and I look forward to seeing the smiling faces lining the parade route!”

– Mayor Rob Burton

“The Oakville Santa Claus Parade Committee is excited the community is coming together in celebration of the parade’s milestone 76th anniversary. We continue to actively look for participants, sponsors and volunteers to help make this year’s parade extra special for everyone.”

– Santa Claus Parade Committee Co-Chair Ward 2 Councillor Cathy Duddeck