'Tis the season to be jolly and locals can once again get into the Christmas spirit as the Santa Parade marches through the downtown Dec. 10, and joining the festivities is the Squamish Christmas Market.
After saving the Santa Parade from cancellation last year, organizer Shanda Dosanjh focused on building a bigger and better parade this year.
"Last year was phenomenal," she said. "It reminded me of when I was a little kid. And with everyone on board this year, we're trying to make the parade even more memorable.
"Let's just hope there's no rain," she added.
There are a number of new additions to this year's parade, which will see as many as 50 floats hit Cleveland Avenue, starting at 7 p.m.
Businesses that want to be involved in the parade but aren't interested in putting together a float can rent out holiday characters to help promote their business. For a $75 fee, a volunteer dressed in a festive costume will wear a sign promoting the business while participating in the parade.
Another new addition is the Big Rigs challenge to local trucking companies. The entry that can put the most lights on their rig will win a special prize. Dosanjh pointed out that four companies have signed on but she expects others to join in.
Parade organizers are also asking everyone in the crowd to wear a crazy Christmas hat and volunteers will dole out treats to anyone brave enough to don one.
The elf play area is also back and will help keep the kids occupied. The family friendly area will feature photo opportunities, games and crafts.
The parade starts at the Squamish Yacht Club on Loggers Lane and follows Vancouver Street before turning down Second Avenue and finally onto Cleveland Avenue.
Those wanting to engage in some Christmas activity prior to the parade can check out the third annual Squamish Christmas Market, which will begin earlier that afternoon at 2 p.m.
According to spokesperson Conny Millard, 32 local artists and crafters have signed up for the event and there is room for at least 18 more.
There will also be traditional music, businesses selling food and drink, and other seasonal items at the market.
"There will be live music, caroling, and we've really cast our net to get local artists and crafters involved," she said.
"The downtown core on Winnipeg Street will be totally pedestrianized and there will be lots to see and do. The key thing here is to get everybody together and get everyone in the mood for Christmas."
Millard said fusing the Christmas Market with the Santa Parade makes sense and helps bring even more locals out for the seasonal celebration.
"It is absolutely essential for us to be paired up with the Santa Parade," she said. "It's a tradition of Squamish and it's great to have the events alongside one another."
Those interested in volunteering with the Santa Parade or wanting to put together a float can e-mail Dosanjh at [email protected].
To take part in the Squamish Christmas Market, contact Millard at [email protected] or visit the group's website at www.squamishchristmas.com.
