Montreal celebrates 72nd Santa Claus Parade

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas. Okay – so maybe no snow – but Santa is here!

On Saturday, Montrealers filled the downtown streets with holiday cheer for the 72nd edition of the Santa Claus Parade, helping to kick off the festive season.

“We are super excited to be here,” said one Montrealer.

Another said, “We do it for him because we want to maintain the Christmas magic for him,” referring to taking her son to the parade.

The parade is a tradition for Montrealers of all ages and helps celebrate the magic of the holiday season. It’s been around since 1925 and is the oldest of its kind in Quebec.

“The weather is good, and it’s a family tradition to really come here every year to watch the Santa Parade. The kids love it too,” said one Montrealer.

“It’s sort of a tradition; we go every year. The parade is always super exciting. I’ve noticed that this year they’ve been giving out hats, which is another bonus. Also, mom says it’s part of the Christmas spirit,” said ten-year-old Nicolas.

For others, they are experiencing the parade for the first time.

“It’s the first time we’re here for Christmas in Montreal, so we would like to see Santa,” said one woman.

“It’s good for the kids. It’s good for the community. It gets everyone together. Why not? Super great initiative from all of us,” said one Montrealer.

“I think just being all together and just the simplicity of it—it doesn’t cost a thing. We had amazing laughs here, and just the memories that we’re creating, they’re going to last a long time. The kids love it, every moment of it,” she added.

The festivities began at 11 a.m. on René-Lévesque Blvd. at Bishop Street. The parade made its way past Peel Street, Mansfield Street, and Robert-Bourassa Blvd., ending on Saint-Urbain Street.

A variety of floats and characters took to the streets, including the Star Fair. Olympic weightlifting champion Maude Charron took on the role this year.

“I am thrilled to be with you on November 23rd as the Snow Fairy! Thank you, Montréal centre-ville, for giving me this opportunity! I hope you enjoyed my performance at the Paris Olympics. I’m very proud to show off my medals to Santa Claus in person! Remember that it’s important to follow your dreams. Life rewards those who believe in their dreams and work hard to achieve them. So think big, dream big, and I’ll see you at the parade on Saturday, November 23, to make all your wishes come true!,” said Charron in a press release.

Who could forget Santa’s little helpers—elves who collected letters for Santa and made sure he received them before Christmas?

“I will personally deliver these letters to Santa Claus,” said one of Santa’s little helpers.

Santa Claus ended the parade on his sleigh, spreading good cheer and wishing everyone happy holidays.