PORT HARDY—Last year's second annual Santa Parade showed a marked increase in turnout over the 2010 debut. Organizer Angie Clance is hoping to build on that momentum when the third annual event takes place Dec. 2 from Thunderbird Mall to the tree-lighting at Carrot Park.
"Last year was phenomenal," said Clance. "We had 22 floats, with people walking and decorated cars. The more the better."
The parade begins at 4 p.m. and follows the route used by the annual Filomi Days Parade each July, from the mall down Granville to Rupert, east to Gray Street, south to Market Street and west to the park alongside the Chamber of Commerce office, where free hot dogs, hot chocolate and candy canes will be distributed.
The parade is timed to wrap up around dusk, in advance of the Christmas tree lighting ceremony. Santa will also make an appearance, of course.
Clance welcomes all participants who wish to take part in the parade, and also welcomes any donations from individuals or businesses. Any money raised in addition to insurance costs goes right back into the event, she said.
To sign up for the parade, donate or for other information, phone Clance at 250-949-7248 days, 250-949-9712 evenings, email aclance@monk.ca or stop by Monk Office Supply in Port Hardy.