Top 11 Tips for Enjoying the Santa Claus Parade in Toronto

Don’t Underestimate the Crowds

The Toronto Santa Claus Parade is the biggest Santa Claus parade in Canada and one of the most highly attended parades in North America, drawing about 500,000 people to line the 6 km long route.

Be prepared to share the sidewalk with plenty of fellow onlookers. If you are not fond of crowds, the parade is always broadcast on TV, or you may watch from one of the hotels along the parade route.

Arrive Early If You Want a Good Spot

Kinda goes without saying that you will be competing with thousands of other people to get a good view of the parade. People begin arriving as early as 9 am to claim their real estate. Ten am is still a good bet, but by 11, it’s getting squishy, and you should hope your shoulders are strong because your kid is going to be on them to see the parade.

Have a Plan If You Get Split Up From Your Kids

Having a plan in place is the best way to prevent a potentially bad situation. With half a million people crowded along the parade route, getting lost is a real possibility for kids. Talk to children about what to do if they get lost, possibly designating a go-to spot. Make sure younger kids know their last names, their parents’ or guardians’ names, and cell phone numbers or write this information on a piece of paper and stick it in their pockets.

Especially if arriving by subway, talk to your kids before you emerge from underground because the moment you step out onto the sidewalk, the mayhem begins. We always advise our kids to go to a policeman on duty immediately or to find a parent with kids who is likely to be sympathetic.

Be Prepared for Long Waits

In addition to the time you will need to wait for the parade to start, there can be long waits between floats—sometimes painfully so. Therefore, it’s wise for parents to arm themselves with activities to keep kids amused: coloring books, games, snacks, etc.

Check the Weather Forecast Before You Head Out

Weather during November in Toronto can be unpredictable. The day of the Toronto Santa Claus Parade has witnessed conditions ranging from sunny to rainy to below freezing. Cold weather will be miserable if you are not dressed properly; therefore, layers are best.

Pack a Knapsack

Don’t head out the door empty-handed. The parade only lasts about 90 minutes, but expect to be out in the open air for much longer—especially if you want a good viewing spot. Handy items to pack include a blanket or chair to hold your spot, a rain poncho, tissues for cold, runny noses, extra sweaters, mitts, hats, scarves, snacks, and a thermos of hot chocolate or warm soup.

Leave the Car at Home

Leave the car at home or far away from downtown. Driving and parking in downtown Toronto is challenging at the best of times, but on parade day, with street closures and thousands of pedestrians, it’s particularly dismal. People coming from out of town may want to park at a GO Station (often free) and take the GO Train into Union Station. The GO system provides a special enhanced schedule on parade day. Another option is to park at Yorkdale Mall and take the subway downtown from there. The following Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) stops are along the parade route: Christie, Bathurst, Spadina, St. George, Museum, Queen’s Park, St. Patrick, Osgoode, Queen, and King Stations.

Know Public Washroom Locations

Of course, your kids will have used the washroom before heading out for the day, but you don’t want to miss the jolly man’s appearance because you were racing around looking for a public toilet. Hotels along the route generally have a lobby bathroom. The Eaton Centre and The Bay, both on Queen, have several public washrooms. Tim Horton’s and McDonald’s are located all along the route as well.

Check Out the Website and Download the App

For all the latest information on the Toronto Santa Claus Parade, be sure to check out their official website, which may feature an app that helps you track Santa’s movements and enjoy festive sounds.

Wear a Red Nose

Be a part of the fun and pick up a red nose at a participating Canadian Tire or at Union Station on parade day.

Consider a Smaller Scale Parade

If you prefer a more intimate experience, you might opt to visit a smaller scale parade in another town or city, as these tend to have more character and fewer crowds. Consider Guelph, Hamilton, Oakville, or any other community known for putting on a decent Santa Claus Parade. The Toronto Santa Claus Parade is notably commercial and often prioritizes promotional aspects over the enchanting atmosphere.