Over the weekend more and more holiday decorations started to appear and in Winnipeg, the annual Santa Claus Parade was held with thousands in attendance.
For Portage la Prairie, the beloved Rotary Santa Parade of Lights is still a few weeks off (Friday, December 6th) but anticipation is starting to build. After several years of rerouted parades due to construction, this year’s event will return to its more traditional route down most of Saskatchewan Avenue, and organizers couldn’t be more excited.
Preston Meier, the chair of the organizing committee, shared his thoughts surrounding this year’s parade.
"It’s the 2024 Rotary Santa Parade of Lights, in partnership with the Portage and District Chamber of Commerce. The construction challenges of the past few years are behind us," Meier noted. "Now, we’re embracing the new layout with its wider sidewalks, bike paths, and bump-outs, which will offer plenty of great spots for spectators to enjoy the show."
For the first time in years, the parade will run along the newly completed Saskatchewan Avenue, beginning at 17th Street Southwest and making its way east to 9th Street Southeast. The parade usually features somewhere from 60 to 70 floats and Meier says it's a chance to showcase the creativity and festive spirit of local businesses, organizations, and community members. Meier says preparations start early.
"Some participants have already begun designing their floats, eager to wow the crowd. The work they put into these floats is amazing. The lights, the sounds, the music—it’s truly a magical night."
With a new layout on the avenue for much of the route, safety remains a top priority for the event. Spectators can look forward to festive treats like candy being handed out instead of tossed to the side of the road by float walkers, ensuring everyone stays safe while enjoying the festivities.
Meier commented this year’s parade promises to deliver all the joy and wonder that has made it a cornerstone of Portage’s holiday season.
"Seeing Santa Claus, the lights, and the excitement of kids and families—it really kicks off the holidays in the best way possible."
The parade begins that night at 7:30 PM and organizers are encouraging groups to register their floats in advance by emailing plprotaryclub@gmail.com. Walk-ins are welcome but registration ensures participants receive important safety guidelines and details for the evening.