Santa delights thousands at annual parade
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Santa greets his fans during the JCI Brantford Santa Claus Parade on Saturday night. Photo by Ashley Taylor /Postmedia Network
The Jim Walsh Bike Ride for Kids With Cancer float was among those taking part in JCI Brantford Santa Claus Parade on Saturday. ASHLEY TAYLORjpg, BR
Grace Cupples, Mikayla Miller and Austin Miller get a front-row view to enjoy the the JCI Brantford Santa Claus parade on Saturday night. ASHLEY TAYLORjpg, BR
Rotary Clowns for Kids take part in the JCI Brantford Santa Claus Parade on Saturday night. Ashley Taylorjpg, BR
Breanna and Blake Mondy are all smiles at the JCI Brantford Santa Claus Parade on Saturday. ASHLEY TAYLORjpg, BR
Everleigh and Ivory Williams bundle up on Saturday night to watch the JCI Brantford Santa Claus Parade. ASHLEY TAYLORjpg, BR
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Eight-year-old Brooklyn Reece was among the thousands who turned out Saturday night for the 45th annual JCI Brantford Santa Claus Parade.
Brooklyn was anxious to see the guest of honour, who waved to well-wishers from a float in the parade that started at Stanley and Dalhousie streets and travelled along Dalhousie to downtown Harmony Square for an after-party sponsored by the City of Brantford.
“I am really excited,” said Brooklyn.
“I saw him last year in this Christmas parade. I’m literally so excited to see him right now, right today.”
The after-party included a tree-lighting ceremony and a chance for children to visit with Santa.
Brooklyn asked Santa for an LOL toy set and Barbie dolls for Christmas.
Santa’s busy schedule continues next Saturday when he will visit Paris for a parade that begins at 6 p.m. Then, on Dec. 14, Santa will do double-duty with a parade in Burford at 5 p.m. and one in St. George at 6 p.m.
Michelle Giffin is among members of JCI Brantford who helped organize the Brantford parade, which switched to a night-time event from a day-time one about 20 years ago. A non-profit organization for those aged 18 to 40, JCI Brantford provides development opportunities that empower young people to create positive change within the community.
“I think a big thing people don’t realize is that (the parade) is put on by a not for profit,” said Giffin, who has been involved with the event for about 10 years. “We have to fund raise.”
Putting on the parade costs about $20,000 to $30,000, which includes paying bands, permits and other expenses, she said.
Saturday’s parade featured nine bands, including the McMaster University marching band.
“This year, we were really fortunate to have a number of large contributors for sponsorship early on,” said Giffin. “We basically have to book the bands a year in advance….”
The timing of the Brantford parade “sort of heralds the coming of Christmas,” said Giffin.
“Santa’s coming to town.”
Anyone looking to help with next year’s parade can contact JCI through its website (jcibrantford.com/) or Facebook page.
astaylor@postmedia.com
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