Santa Claus Parade 2024 in Toronto

As winter approaches Toronto, Santas arrive to the city with the accompaniment of bright floats and marching bands

Dates: November 24, 2024

Have you ever seen thousands of Santas gathered at the same time and place? Every year since 1905 Toronto has been hosting this red-and-white mass at the beginning of winter, in late November. Santa Clauses don't come alone—a few dozen animated floats and bands accompany the parade.

Every year, the Parade brings hundreds of thousands of people to the streets of Toronto, with millions more watching from home to celebrate this joyous season. It’s part of the fabric of the Toronto community.

Santa Claus Parade Main Features

One of the major highlights of the Parade is its celebrity clowns. The tradition started in 1982 when organizers Ron Barbaro and Norman Jewison wore make-up and clown costumes to the Parade. They enjoyed it so much that the next year recruited 18 corporate executives to become Celebrity Clowns. At present, over 150 Celebrity Clowns participate in the procession.

Spectators at the Santa Claus Parade are encouraged to wear Rudolph’s red nose to help light the way for Santa even in the tough weather. It is also a way to show support for the beloved Toronto tradition. Later, everyone can share pictures with parade organizers on social media.

Santa Claus Parade Route and Schedule

This spectacular walk starts at Bloor & Christie and ends at the intersection of Front and Jarvis Streets at the St. Lawrence Market. The Parade route is 4 miles (6.5 kilometers) long, and it takes approximately 90 minutes for the entire parade to pass by each visitor. The Parade rolls out at 12:30 pm, while Santa reaches the end of the Parade at Front St. and Jarvis St. at about 3:30 pm.

Holly Jolly Fun Run

The 5k Holly Jolly Fun Run follows the same route as the Santa Claus Parade, starting at 11:45 am. Typically, over 1,000 runners participate, with all proceeds directly supporting the Parade.

While you can come watch the parade firsthand, millions of lazier holiday lovers can still experience it on TV as the event will air on CTV (exact date and time to be announced). You can also buy raffle rickets for various prices, from $10 to $50). Please also remember that the event wouldn't be happening without its volunteers, so if you feel like helping, go register as one on the event's official website.