Toronto's Santa Claus Parade returns after facing cancellation last year

A beloved Toronto tradition is set to return this year after threats of cancellation last year, with the Original Santa Claus Parade to hit the streets again for 2025 in late November. 

This year's parade promises the same holiday cheer crowds have come to expect over the years, including floats like The Dalton Owl and Mother Goose, more than 1,200 marchers, and live bands, as thousands gather to celebrate the start of the holiday season.

But, like many other events in Toronto this year, the parade was almost scrapped.

The 2025 parade returns after a turbulent 2024, where organizers were forced to issue a plea for help to keep the annual tradition alive amid financial challenges.

Clay Charters, President and CEO of the Original Santa Claus Parade, shared a heartfelt appeal at the time, stating, "In the spirit of togetherness for our 120th anniversary, we're asking anyone who holds a heartfelt memory of the Parade to consider donating $2.00, $12.00, $120.00, or any amount they're inspired to give. If even a quarter of the Parade's attendees donate just $2.00, we will surpass our goal of raising $250,000 to secure the future of this cherished city hallmark."

This statement came right as organizers launched an official GoFundMe campaign to restore financial stability, which is still open for those who want to contribute to the Parade's ongoing efforts to secure a stable future for itself. 

Ultimately, the parade's fate was left up to the public, who stepped up to save it. Support poured in from across the city, and then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced that the federal government would help keep the annual tradition afloat. 

Fundraising efforts managed to drum up $140,000 in support of the parade, explained Charters.

"We knew it would be a difficult ask, requesting fans of the Parade to support us more directly, but we were optimistic that its significance would translate into support, and it did," Charters tells blogTO.

He adds that the team is deeply grateful for the support, stating organizers "are working hard to ensure the Parade is stable and set up for success, not just this year, but for years to come."

"We know that the community will once again come together for this landmark event."

Without that support, the Original Santa Claus Parade may have faced the same fate as many other local events this year.

"These events help build the fabric of our city, creating a real sense of community," Charters says. "As we lose them, we lose chances to celebrate together, to make connections, and to support the businesses that make this city so special." 

He adds, "Ultimately, it's up to those of us in leadership positions to show the value these events bring. That's what we're focused on: bringing to life something that's important to people. If we do that, I'm confident the Parade will endure for years to come." 

The Original Santa Claus Parade takes place on Nov. 23 at 12:30 p.m., beginning at Christie Pits Park located at 750 Bloor St. W.