The Santa Claus Parade Creates Magical Memories

108th Annual Santa Claus Parade

TORONTO, Nov. 2, 2012 /CNW/ - The Santa Claus Parade is celebrating its 108^th year and is sure to inspire even more priceless memories. Santa Claus himself announced this year's magical Parade details, including amazing new floats, interactive fun and an opportunity to be one of Santa's Special Helpers, to help ring in the holiday season.

The Parade will take place on Sunday, November 18, 2012 at 12:30 p.m., when excited children and fans of all ages will line the streets of Toronto to celebrate the holiday season and experience the magic of Santa Claus.

The floats in this year's Santa Claus Parade are sure to inspire the crowds with new incredible sights and touches of Parade history. Two iconic Canadian brands, the Santa Claus Parade and the Grey Cup, are joining forces this year, with the real Grey Cup making an appearance along the route.

"It's always our goal to make the Parade more spectacular each year while honouring our connections to this great city," said Alf Iannarelli, Santa Claus Parade General Manager and Creative Director. "We have created some wonderful new floats for the crowds to enjoy and we know that Santa's float will truly dazzle!"

"I always love seeing the warm smiling faces as I pass through the streets of Toronto spreading holiday cheer," said Santa Claus, who was in town for today's special preview. "The Parade celebrates the season and brings joy to everyone who is a part of it, from spectators to volunteers, and that's what the holidays are all about!"

For the first time ever, Santa Claus is giving kids of all ages a chance to become one of his Special Helpers for the Parade by contributing to the creation of some Parade magic. Lovers of the cherished tradition are invited to make a Parade donation to help personalize their connection to the Santa Claus Parade. In turn, Santa's Special Helpers will receive a lasting memory of their support of this Toronto tradition, including the opportunity to have their name displayed on a special float.

"Extensive research commissioned by the Parade revealed that 90% of Ontarians believe that The Santa Claus Parade signals the start of the Christmas season," said Peter Beresford, Santa Claus Parade President. "The Santa Claus Parade is one of the most cherished holiday traditions and continues to excite and inspire fans every year."

The Santa Claus Parade will travel the same route this year, beginning at Bloor & Christie, along Bloor to University, travelling down University to Wellington and ending at the intersection of Front and Jarvis Streets at the St. Lawrence Market. The Santa Claus Parade airs Sunday, Nov. 18 at 4:30 p.m. ET on CTV (5:30-7 p.m. AT on CTV Two Atlantic).

The Santa Claus Parade is the largest children's parade in North America and largest outdoor entertainment event held in Canada every year. More information on the parade, including even more exciting Parade details, can be found at www.thesantaclausparade.com.

SOURCE: The Santa Claus Parade

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:
Sara Doucet
Harbinger
416-960-5100 x 229
[email protected] 

Additional information is available at www.thesantaclausparade.com/media, password: 2012PARADE