The work that went into organizing the Tillsonburg’s 2023 Santa Claus Parade was all worth it.
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“Absolutely,” said Lindsay Munroe, co-chair of the Tillsonburg and Area Optimist Club parade committee after Saturday’s night-time parade, a first in Tillsonburg. “Lots of kids, lots of fun – the turnout was amazing, big crowds.”
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And a lot of excitement – there was an eagerness in the crowd from south Broadway to Bear Street, Bridge to Bidwell as the parade’s new looping route took it past Tillsonburg District Memorial Hospital, Woodingford Lodge and Maple Manor on its way back to Avondale Church, as well as a feeling of appreciation.
“A lot of cheering when the tree lights went up with Santa’s magic – he read our town’s Christmas tree,” said Munroe. “It’s great to bring magic to Tillsonburg.”
Floats started arriving in the staging area by 11 am Saturday, well in advance of the 6 pm parade.
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“Transports came early to start decorating.”
Time-wise, Saturday’s parade was nearly double Tillsonburg’s typical one-hour Santa Claus parades.
“We were talking to some of the councillors, and Kelly Spencer said it was one of the largest turnouts for anything she’s seen in Tillsonburg so far,” said Munroe. “It was a big town event.”
Tim Hortons set up a hot chocolate and donut station for participants after the parade on a cold, but not freezing night.
“It was fun, I liked all the lights,” said Santa Claus, who rode on a reindeer-and-sleigh float with Mrs. Claus. “It was a good crowd.
“Our sleigh looked nice, eh? Yeah, it was awesome tonight – it was a lot of fun.”
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