The Royale Greater Moncton Santa Claus parade will not be held for a second year in a row.
The organizing committee says registrations for floats and volunteer commitments have been impacted by growing concerns around public safety due to COVID-19. They add this is also due to ongoing circuit breaker restrictions and public health concerns, and they will be unable to proceed.
Parade President Alex Morton says, “This decision was made with heavy hearts, knowing how many people were looking forward to some feeling that life has returned to normal. Unfortunately, our lives continue to be impacted by this pandemic and we must listen to the concerns raised by volunteers and municipal representatives.”
He adds, “The committee will resume our work, focused on creating an incredible experience in 2022,” he says.
The annual tradition was supposed to be held on November 27th.
Children who traditionally give their letters to Santa to Canada Post volunteers at the parade are reminded they can drop those letters in any mailbox, free of charge, when addressed to Santa.
The committee is also encouraging those who were planning to make a food drive donation at the parade, to donate directly to Food Depot Alimentaire.
Traditionally, the annual Santa Claus parade in Moncton is the largest East of Montreal, and has attracted over 100, 000 spectators in the past.
Organizations and businesses that had registered for the 2021 parade, or companies interested in sponsoring next year’s parade, can email info@parademoncton.ca for more details.
