“It’s a great kickoff to the Christmas season,” said Pam Montgomery, the executive director of Downtown Summerside.
“So far we have 19 confirmed floats, but by Friday we expect to have 40 to 50 participants.
“We’ve actually seen an increase in participation over the last few years. I think that says that people really enjoy it.”
The parade is set for Friday.
It starts at 6:30 p.m. in the parking lot in front of Holland College, continues along Water Street, and ends at Greenwood Drive.
At the end of the parade, Santa Claus will be waiting with hot chocolate, said Montgomery.
“There will be time for a meet and greet so the kiddies can meet Santa at the end.
“That’s probably my favourite part, seeing the kids excited about the fire trucks and Santa… They’re really who you do this for.”
“It’s a great kickoff to the Christmas season,” said Pam Montgomery, the executive director of Downtown Summerside.
“So far we have 19 confirmed floats, but by Friday we expect to have 40 to 50 participants.
“We’ve actually seen an increase in participation over the last few years. I think that says that people really enjoy it.”
The parade is set for Friday.
It starts at 6:30 p.m. in the parking lot in front of Holland College, continues along Water Street, and ends at Greenwood Drive.
At the end of the parade, Santa Claus will be waiting with hot chocolate, said Montgomery.
“There will be time for a meet and greet so the kiddies can meet Santa at the end.
“That’s probably my favourite part, seeing the kids excited about the fire trucks and Santa… They’re really who you do this for.”
The festivities include Christmas music, lights and a stage set up in front of Scotiabank with MCs highlighting the parade.
“Some shops are also staying open late so people can get a jump start on their Christmas shopping.
“Everyone is pretty excited. We’ve been lucky over the past few years to have a great event. Hopefully this year will be the same.”
Downtown Summerside is always looking for more volunteers for the parade, said Montgomery.
There will also be a competition for best float.
“We have judges set up along the parade route that will grade the floats.
“In the past it’s been the floats, that exemplify what the Christmas season means to the community, that have won.”
