Even though the Santa Claus Parade could not happen this year, the City of Thorold has still found the Christmas spirit, with a Festival of Lights and a Holiday Skate with Santa.
Says Sebastian Soccio-Marandola, the chair of the Special Events Committee, “It is bad that the parade had to be cancelled. I know it was devastating across the city. I’m very excited and happy with what we were able to pull off, given the untimely circumstances.”
The Festival of Lights runs until January 2 and sees several locations in Thorold adorned with Christmas lights.
Says Soccio-Marandola, “They’re through Downtown Thorold. We have the Thorold Arena, the light posts from Front Street up to Clairmont, as well as the Thorold fire hall. The BIA put up some wonderful displays down Front Street as well.”
In conjunction with the Festival of Lights, the City of Thorold is also hosting a house decorating contest.
“On the City of Thorold website you can submit your home and there’s an interactive map where you can view all the decorated houses in the city, and vote on your favourites. The winners will receive gift cards to local Thorold businesses of their choice.”
But that’s not all! Santa will be visiting the Thorold Arena between 12.30pm and 4.00pm this Saturday, December 18.
“There is no preregistration needed. You’ll get a chance to visit with Santa, there will be some hot chocolate, candy canes, little goodies and then there’s also a free skate being put on during that time.”
As for next year’s Santa Claus Parade, Soccio-Marandola says the preparations are already well underway.
“Our call out to community members has been well received and we have some people who have come forward to join us and help ensure next year’s parade happens but we still would like more volunteers. The more the merrier, so if other people would like to join, it would be great if they could reach out.”
