The Original Santa Claus Parade brings wonder and joy to everyone

TORONTO, Nov. 2, 2017 /CNW/ - Today at his secret workshop, Santa Claus himself announced the exciting details of The Original Santa Claus Parade, including a new logo celebrating the parade's unique position as the first Santa Claus Parade in Canada.

This year the parade will feature 25 floats and 21 marching bands, including a float celebrating Canada's appearance in the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics, Other floats will feature the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Toronto Raptors, as part of the continuing partnership with Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment.

"All the world is happy when Santa Claus arrives," said Peter Beresford, Santa Claus Parade President and CEO. "We are excited to be celebrating the magic and happiness that Santa brings to the City of Toronto."

This year's Parade will take place on Sunday, November 19 at 12:30 p.m., when children of all ages will line the streets waiting for a chance to see the jolly old elf himself. Now, in its fifth year, the Holly Jolly Fun Run, a 5km run, will kick off the parade starting at 11:45 a.m. on parade day. Last year there were over one thousand runners in attendance. The run will follow the Parade route and end at Maple Leaf Square. All proceeds raised will support the Santa Claus Parade.

"I am so excited to see all the smiling faces along the parade route," said Santa Claus, who flew into town from the North Pole to offer a preview of this year's magic. "The parade celebrates this amazing season and brings happiness to everyone involved, from volunteers to celebrity clowns, but especially to the spectators. It's what the holidays are all about."

The Parade starts at Bloor and Christie Streets; travels along Bloor Street to University Avenue, travel south on University Avenue to Wellington Street, then travels east on Wellington. This year the parade will head south on Yonge Street before heading east on Front Street, finally ending at the intersection of Front and Jarvis Streets at the St. Lawrence Market. The Original Santa Claus Parade airs Sunday, November 19 at 4:30 p.m. ET/PT on CTV and 5:30 p.m. AT on CTV and CTV GO.

About the Santa Claus Parade
The Santa Claus Parade is the largest children's parade in North America and the largest outdoor entertainment event held in Canada every year. More information on the Parade at thesantaclausparade.com

About the Santa's Elves
This year, a very special group of companies have stepped forward to make a long-term commitment and a substantial financial investment to ensure the Parade continues to bring smiles for years to come.

Santa's Elves:

• McDonalds
• Canadian Tire
• Metro
• RBC
• CIBC
• Scotia Bank
• TD
• BMO
• Indigo
• MLSE

SOURCE The Santa Claus Parade

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