By Cecilia Nasmith

The Town of Cobourg is now taking registrations for its first-ever evening Santa Claus parade, Dec. 4 at 6 p.m.

A change in provincial regulations has made a parade possible, the press release said.

On Oct. 8, in accordance with regulations then in place and then-current public-health guidelines the town's Community Events Committee and the Cobourg Santa Claus Parade Planning Committee made the decision to cancel the 2021 Santa Claus Parade.

On Oct. 27, the province announced the removal of capacity limits at outdoor organized events such as Remembrance Day ceremonies, holiday parades, fairs and festivals, the outdoor areas of zoos and museums and other outdoor recreational amenities.
“We are very much looking forward to hosting our first-ever evening parade, promising to bring a magical holiday atmosphere and, of course, incorporate our beautiful annual light display in Victoria Park, Rotary Harbourfront Park and the downtown area,” said Councillor Adam Bureau, Coordinator of Arts, Culture and Tourism.

“I am really looking forward to seeing all the creative parade floats as we celebrate the holiday season!”

While the parade has typically travelled west to finish up with a celebration and visit-with-Santa time at the Cobourg Public Library, this year's parade will begin at the library and move east, ending at Victoria Park.

Each year, organizers encourage participants to design and decorate floats based on a festive theme. This year, that would be a Favourite Holiday Song and Light Show – to showcase both a musical and lighting component that will add an even more festive spirit to the evening's proceedings.

Community organizations, groups an businesses wanting to be part of the parade can review the rules and regulations and eligibility guidelines prior to submitting a registration form (the deadline is Friday, Nov. 26). Visit www.cobourg.ca/christmas

Judging will take place in the categories of Best Commercial Float, Best Non-Commercial Float, Best Themed Float, Mayor's Award and People's Choice Award.

Haliburton Kawartha Pine Ridge District Health Unit Medical Officer of Health Dr. Natalie Bocking reminds everyone to follow basic public-health guidelines, including physical distancing, wearing a mask or face covering, and staying home if you are sick. Though outdoor events post a lower risk for spreading COVID-19, everyone should continue to do their part to keep everyone safe and healthy this holiday season.

For those who cannot attend, the event will be livestreamed with commentary on COGECO's YourTV Northumberland (Cable 10/HD Cable 700).
For more information on the parade and other holiday festivities happening within the Town of Cobourg, visit www.cobourg.ca/christmas