Manitoba Hydro Santa Claus Parade reaches pre-pandemic participation numbers

Article content

The Manitoba Hydro Santa Claus Parade returns to downtown Winnipeg for the 115th parade on Saturday, Nov. 16 at 5:00 p.m.! The free, fun, family-friendly tradition unofficially kicks off the holiday season with bright floats and enthusiastic walking groups that bring festive holiday vibes.

Article content

This year’s Manitoba Hydro Santa Parade features over 60 floats, the largest number of entries since 2019.

“We’re grateful for the support of the Winnipeg community and are thrilled to see the beloved parade return to pre-pandemic numbers,” says Monica Derksen, Manitoba Hydro Santa Claus Parade Director.

Many of this year’s entries celebrate Winnipeg’s 150 years as a city and will feature city departments and services past and present. The City of Winnipeg has always been a significant supporter of the event, and that’s why the City of Winnipeg is this year’s Grand Marshal.

“The City of Winnipeg’s 150th year provides a unique opportunity to celebrate one of our biggest partners as our Grand Marshal this year,” says Monica. “Congratulations to the City of Winnipeg on 150 years, and thank you for your ongoing support of the Manitoba Hydro Santa Claus Parade!”

Article content

Article content

Another valued partner of the parade is Manitoba Hydro. For over 25 years, Manitoba Hydro has been involved with the Winnipeg Santa Claus Parade. That’s almost three decades of invaluable support for the community.

“The Manitoba Hydro Santa Claus Parade allows us to demonstrate our ongoing dedication to community involvement,” says Alexis LaForest, Supervisor of community investment at Manitoba Hydro. “We believe in the power of coming together to celebrate and support one another, and this event is a shining example of the true spirit of Energy for Life.”

The 2024 parade will follow the same route as past years, starting at Portage Avenue and Main Street, heading west down Portage Avenue until it turns south onto Memorial Boulevard and ends at York Avenue. The fun starts at 4:00 p.m. with Santa’s Block Parties as local organizations host activities and events along the parade route. Attendees are reminded to dress appropriately for the weather conditions.

Article content

Volunteers are still needed for the “No Feet on the Street” program. Folks aged 18 and older can learn more and sign up at https://www.mbhydrosantaparade.com/volunteers/.

Parade spectators are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items and new unwrapped gifts for The Christmas Cheer Board. The associated charity will be collecting items in the Manitoba Hydro building atrium at 360 Portage Avenue and with volunteers along the parade route.

The Manitoba Hydro Santa Claus Parade is Winnipeg’s longest-running free community event. Established in 1909, the annual event is a holiday tradition for many local families. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Manitoba Hydro Santa Claus Parade was postponed in 2020 and 2021.

The parade route map and other details can be found here: https://www.mbhydrosantaparade.com/

Article content