ALL THE DETAILS
World's longest-running kids' parade set to thrill
November 12, 2009
Paul Irish
STAFF REPORTER
It's a magical moment greeted with squeals of delight from children of all ages – as they finally see Santa and his reindeer at the end of Toronto's annual parade.
"It's an incredible event and draws one the biggest crowds in Toronto," says parade general manager Alf Iannarelli. "It's just a lot of fun, it's part of the city's history."
It's the longest-running children's parade in the world and is broadcast across North America and as far away as New Zealand, Norway and Ireland.
Iannarelli never likes to recommend viewing spots, insisting the entire 5.7-kilometre route offers great sightlines.
But he does suggest families should listen to weather reports, dress accordingly and, above all, arrive early.
Sunday's parade – which starts at 12.30 p.m. at Bloor and Christie Sts. – will feature 26 floats, 20 bands and a small army of celebrity clowns handing out one million pieces of candy.
It takes about 1,500 volunteers to make it all happen and the parade will take about 70 minutes to pass any one spot along the route.
"Yes, there'll be plenty to see and hear," promises Iannarelli. "Lots of music, lots of characters and, of course, there's Santa."
There is one minor change in the parade route this year. Instead of its usual left turn onto Queen St., it will now turn one block earlier at Dundas St. – heading east to Yonge, then south, past Yonge-Dundas Square, the site of a big pre-parade breakfast and party.
Most seasoned parade fans swear by public transit but, if you plan to drive, some downtown office buildings open their underground parking lots.
GO Transit will be running a special schedule of trains in and out of Union Station before and after the parade.
TTC stops along the route include Christie, Bathurst, Spadina, St. George, Museum, Queen's Park, St. Patrick, Osgoode, Queen and King stations.
Check out the official website at www.thesantaclausparade.ca for more information.
Toronto Star