NEWS RELEASE
ORILLIA DISTRICT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
*************************
It’s almost that time of year again.
The Orillia District Chamber of Commerce (ODCC) is planning its annual Santa Claus Parade. This year, the event will take place on Saturday, Nov. 23, starting at 5 p.m. The Santa Claus Parade is presented by Eagle Landscaping and Norscape Landscape and Pond Depot.
Local businesses and community groups are invited to participate in the parade by registering a float. Registration is available online at orillia.com/santa-claus-float-registration, and there is no registration fee for non-profits, community groups, and members of the ODCC. A small fee applies to for-profit, non-chamber member businesses to help cover costs associated with policing and bands.
Float entries can consist of anything from decorated vehicles to walking groups to full floats. There is no theme for the parade, so participants can be as creative as they would like in their float designs. Music and light elements are encouraged wherever possible. Some sources of inspiration for float design include winter holidays, snow sports, or movies.
When registering, participants are asked to note the rules, insurance requirements, and terms of the release and waiver. ODCC events staff will follow up wherever there is a concern; however, in general entrants can take their confirmation email as confirmation of registration. The events team will reach out in the weeks leading up to the parade with instructions for the day of the event.
Participating in the Santa Claus Parade is a great way for businesses and organizations to give back to the community. It can also be a great way to advertise, as well as a fun team-building opportunity for staff. The parade is in its 119th year and continues to be extremely popular, drawing thousands of residents to downtown Orillia. Many local families look forward to attending the parade as an important part of their holiday traditions.
For those who are unable to enter a float, there are plenty of other ways to get involved in the parade. Sponsorships are greatly needed, and there are a variety of sponsorship options available. Sponsor registration is available at orillia.com/santa-claus-float-registration or by contacting the events team at the ODCC.
The parade is also in need of volunteers. In particular, banner carriers are needed. Banner carriers walk in the parade, making this an excellent opportunity for anyone who is interested in being part of the parade but who isn’t able to enter a float. For high school students, it can be a fun and easy way to earn community service hours to go toward their requirements for graduation. Younger students are also welcome to take part; however, they must be over 12 years of age or be accompanied by an adult. Volunteers can register at forms.gle/YeHivW2dTbUmmZap8.
Parade updates will be posted on the Orillia District Chamber of Commerce Facebook page and on orillia.com. The Orillia and District Santa Claus Parade would not be possible without the support of the members of the Orillia District Chamber of Commerce. A directory of chamber members is available at orillia.com.
*************************
