When I was compiling a list of the things I would “try,” the town’s Christmas Parade was at the top of it. Maybe because it was November and the holidays were top of mind, but also because Niagara-on-the-Lake this time of year is like walking onto a Hallmark Holiday movie set. Walking in the parade would be the ultimate festive experience.
Would I jump on the NOTL Wolves hockey float? Or maybe someone in a marching band would let me shake some bells? I mentioned it to a group of friends and someone suggested joining the NOTL Museum in period costume. Yes and Yes!
Two days later I was in the attic of the museum with Barbara Worthy and talented volunteer and master seamstress Pam Mundy. It felt special and precious. Barbara is a stylist extraordinaire. She knew what looked right and what was “off.” She wanted to ensure each volunteer felt great and looked good in their outfit. Sashes were added, then removed. Skirts hemmed and cinched. Bonnets added then replaced with wide-brimmed beauties. Basically it was a blast!
Outfits with tags describing the period and materials were affixed to each dress, one more intricate than the next. Of course there were every-day frocks, but the shiny, beaded, embellished numbers really stood out.
n the end I was fitted into a late-19th century (1890) dark navy jacket with trim, worn with a slim bustle skirt and of course the obligatory petticoat. I learned the petticoat was a staple in women’s wear and helped to keep them warm, as well as creating a fashionable silhouette. For a winter parade I was happy to wear one, plus the lace trim was a pretty detail peeking from beneath the long skirt.
Fran Boot has been walking with the museum for 2 years. “In 2023 we borrowed some historical outfits from the museum for the Rotary Holiday House Tour McArthur Event. In exchange for that favour we were happy to participate in the Christmas Parade on behalf of the museum. Luckily for us, the weather has been fantastic both of the years that we participated. It’s such a pleasure to help make history come alive by walking with The Tiny Museum along with The Friends of Fort George and others.”
When asked about her impression of the parade this year, “we were warmly received by the parade audience,” she said. “They shout out greetings to us and wave; of course we do the same! I’m sure the people on the floats have fun, but we are right up close with the crowd, handing out chocolates to the kids, and their enthusiasm and excitement for the parade is contagious. It’s impressive to see the groups of friends and families that have set themselves up at their annual parade-watching spot, decked out in crazy hats and glasses, sharing drinks and snacks. I’ve always enjoyed costumes, theme parties, and history; this event lets me be my alter ego. Last year my then-two- year-old grandson lit up when he proclaimed that his granny was now ‘a princess.’”
“Why do I do it? Because it’s fun for us, and it’s a great way for our community to have fun together as well. Thank you to those who make this parade an annual event. Great job,” said Boot.
Perfectly said!
In the end we walked and danced about 10,000 steps (warm-up walking while waiting for the parade to begin included), handed out hundreds of chocolates, saw countless friends and family in the crowd and joined a community event full of warmth and happiness. If you have an opportunity next year, try it!
In case you missed it you can watch coverage of the NOTL Parade on YourTV Niagara Friday, Dec. 20 at 7 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 22 at 11 a.m., and Monday Dec. 23 at 6 p.m.
