MINTO – A jolly man in a red suit will be gracing the Palmerston community this December, so you better watch out.
On Dec. 7 at 7pm the Santa Claus parade will make its return to Palmerston with over 50 floats of Christmas spirit on display for all to enjoy.
There is no registration for floats and all participants should be lined up at 6pm at the meeting spot, Ashland Transport beside the Palmerston Fire Hall.
“It’s pretty well established,” stated Minto Fire Deputy Chief Callise Loos.
Loos has been involved with the parades since her full time employment in 2011.
She, along with a team of firefighters and volunteers, organize the Minto parades each year, bringing joy to the community and its residents.
The parade route begins on King Street, heads down Lowe Street to James Street, turns right on Main Street East, left onto Brunswick Street and wraps up on Daly Street towards the legion.
As the floats drive by, pipe bands, walkers and other musical talents will be marching and dancing throughout the parade.
“The Palmerston parade is always something that everyone should see, specifically because of all the bands,” she said.
“It’s always fun to have music in a parade.”
Don’t forget about food bank donations as members from the Palmerston Kinettes will be collecting them along the route.
The Palmerston Community Food Bank appreciates all donations but officials shared some popular choices such as cereal boxes for both adults and children, as well as instant oatmeal packages.
There will also be some awards up for grabs for those participating in the parade:
- best commercial float receives $200, second place $150;
- best non-commercial float receives $200, second place $150;
- best overall float receives $300; and
- best walker receives $150, second place $100.
When asked how she got Santa to come to Palmerston Loos stated, “I guess we treat him well.”
Once Santa Claus finishes wishing everyone a ‘Merry Christmas’ he will be joining guests at the Palmerston Legion for pictures, snacks and warmth all located at 260 Daly St.
According to Loos the Palmerston parade is the biggest amongst the Minto parades so bundle up with a hot cocoa, find a good seat and enjoy the holiday spirit.
