The Santa Claus Parade sailed through downtown Corner Brook on Saturday, Dec. 4.
Brendyn Creamer
Kicker
The tenth annual Santa Claus Parade travelled through downtown Corner Brook on Saturday, Dec. 4.
Organized by the Corner Brook Kinsmen Club, the parade began at 5 p.m. and travelled through the city’s downtown area.
The Kinsmen Club took over the event from the Lion’s Club ten years ago, said parade chair Mike Hoffe. It has been organizing the event ever since. Last year, however, the club was unable to have a traditional parade due to COVID-19.
“Last year we did what you would call a reverse parade,” said Hoffe. “You drive through. They decorated West Street with the help of the city and the businesses.”
With the help of the City of Corner Brook, the Kinsmen were able to dress up businesses on West Street and host a ride-through parade. However, the Kinsmen Club was able to go back to a traditional parade this year.
Those who attended were expected to practice social distancing within their bubbles. The parade was also unable to hand out treat bags or collect letters for Santa due to COVID-19 concerns.
Many local businesses made floats for the parade. City Cabs decorated some of their cars, while the Sterling Group, which owns the Valley and Millbrook Malls, towed a gingerbread house on a trailer.
Awards were given out to standout floats in the parade. For instance, Atlantic Ready Mix won the Best Commercial Group Float award.
Marine Contractors Inc. won the Best Overall Float award. They decorated a series of construction vehicles with stunning lights, inflatable Christmas figures and candy canes.
This year’s parade sought to be as inclusive as possible. The first route for the parade, through Cpl. Pinksen Memorial Drive, was a sensory-free experience.
Evan Cooper, who saw the parade, said that it was great chance for people to get out and socialize.
“I thought it was really nice because we don’t really get to do a lot of this stuff now, and to be able to do this was very lovely.”
Despite the varying weather on Saturday, the parade went off without a hitch. Both children and adults “oohed” and “ahhed” at the colourful floats as they passed by. The positive reaction from onlookers is proof enough that this return to form was indeed a success.
Photos of the floats are available on the City of Corner Brook Facebook page.
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