All aboard! The magical season is upon us, and the heart of Toronto is set to burst with festive fervour as the city welcomes the enchanting return of the 119th annual Santa Claus Parade this Sunday, Nov. 26! Brace yourselves for a Polar Express-style journey through the bustling streets as lively floats, spirited marching bands, and the wondrous spirit of Christmas descend upon downtown Toronto.
A Tale of Love in the Air: Mr. and Mrs. Claus’ Dazzling Debut on Festive Floats!
This year’s parade promises to be more spellbinding than ever, featuring dazzling new floats that showcase the love story of the star couple, Mr. and Mrs. Claus. As the parade winds its way through the city, the air will be filled with the jingling of bells, the rustling of ribbons, and the laughter of children, echoing the joyous arrival of the holiday season.
But hold onto your festive hats, because there’s more magic afoot! The parade route has taken a whimsical twist this year, leading the festive procession down Spadina Avenue, through the enchanting Harbord Street, and around the regal Queen’s Park circle. The journey kicks off at 12:30 p.m. from Christie Street and Bloor Street W., promising a spectacle that will warm hearts even in the chilliest winter breeze.
And here’s the most exciting news of all—after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Santa Claus Parade returns live and in person for the second year! No more screens between you and the magic; this year, be part of the live audience, witnessing the holiday spirit unfold before your very eyes.
Whimsical Route Reimagined: Follow the Enchanted Path from Spadina to Queen’s Park!
However, like a sprinkle of snowflakes on Christmas morning, there will be some changes to the regular routine. Commuters, be prepared for road closures and delays starting as early as 7 a.m. on Sunday. The parade is set to weave its way through downtown Toronto, spreading cheer and enchantment for approximately two-and-a-half hours, with roads reopening by 6 p.m.
Details below:
- Bloor Street West, from Ossington Avenue to Christie Street, at 7 a.m.
- Bloor Street West, from Christie Street to Spadina Road, at 10 a.m.
- Spadina Road, from Bloor Street West to Harbord Street, at 10:30 a.m.
- Harbord Street, from Spadina Road to Queen’s Park Crescent, at 10:30 a.m.
- Queen’s Park Crescent, from Harbord Street to College Street, at 11 a.m.
- University Avenue, from College Street to Dundas Street, at 11 a.m.
- University Avenue, from Dundas Street to Front Street, at 11:15 a.m.
- Wellington Street, from University Avenue to Jarvis Street, at 11:30 a.m.
- Front Street, from Bay Street to Jarvis Street, at 11:45 a.m.
- Front Street, from Jarvis Street to Sherbourne Street, at 11 a.m.
As you plan your festive adventure through the city, anticipate encountering road closures along the route, beginning on Bloor Street West and weaving through the heart of downtown. But fear not, for this is a small sacrifice for the gift of witnessing the grandeur of the Santa Claus Parade up close and personal.
The Polar Express
So, dust off your sleigh bells, don your coziest scarves, and join the festive throng as Toronto transforms into a winter wonderland, echoing with the timeless words, “Dash Away, Dash Away, Dash Away, All!”
And to get you in the mood for this magical journey, click on this link from The Polar Express. Let the sleigh bells ring, the joy abound, and the magic of Christmas unfold in the heart of Toronto!