Toronto’s holiday season kicked off in joyful fashion on Sunday as thousands of residents lined Bloor Street West for the city’s 121st annual Santa Claus Parade—umbrellas, blankets and folding chairs in hand—refusing to let steady rain dim the festive mood.
Families began staking out viewing spots early near Christie Pits Park, some perched on ladders and municipal railings to give their children a better view. Parents hoisted little ones onto their shoulders as they waited for the final float—the long-awaited appearance of Santa Claus—to roll by.
Despite the drizzle, excitement never dipped. Volunteers walking alongside the parade’s 27 floats smiled for photos, danced through the rain and wished nearby children happy holidays. Many had registered as early as February, while others were long-time participants returning with school groups or community clubs.
Sixty-year-old Fatima Matarozzo, volunteering for the first time, said she signed up simply to give back. Assigned a costume at random, she found herself dressed as a Nintendo dragon—much to her delight. “My husband and son play Nintendo, so I got really excited,” she said. She quickly made friends with fellow first-time volunteer Melissa Lai, 55, who shared her motivation to give back after years of bringing her own children to the parade.
The event also showcased the dedication of young performers. The North Toronto Collegiate Institute marching band, dressed in red uniforms and undeterred by the dark skies, gathered proudly at the starting point. Grade 12 students Aba Nezhadi and Franklin Cappadocia, marching for their third consecutive year, were chosen to lead the band with its banner—an honour both described as unforgettable.
The parade route filled with the sounds of brass instruments, pounding drums, whistles and megaphone-amplified greetings. Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow marched in a Santa-inspired outfit, waving enthusiastically, delivering high fives and calling out holiday cheer to children on both sides of the street.
One young paradegoer nearly stole the show. Ten-year-old Arthur, dressed head-to-toe as Santa Claus, stood with her father and brother on Hoskin Avenue, unfazed by the rain as marchers repeatedly shouted, “Santa! Is that you?” When the real Santa finally arrived, he pointed at Arthur and boomed, “Oh my goodness, there’s my cousin!” The crowd erupted in laughter as Arthur beamed with pride.
Asked why she chose the costume, Arthur said with a grin that it had been her Halloween outfit and she was thrilled to wear it again.
Rain or not, Toronto’s beloved tradition once again brought out the warmth, humour and community spirit that have made the Santa Claus Parade a fixture for more than a century.