It's not his traditional parade, but Santa Claus is still coming to Tilbury this holiday season -- twice.
For the second year, Tilbury Auto Mall will be hosting a drive-by parade for residents to enjoy from the comfort of their own vehicles.
That event will take place on November 26 and run from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Organizer Gerry Harvieux said due to the traditional parade being cancelled again this year, the auto mall agreed to host the parade at their Lally Ford and Tilbury Chrysler locations.
"There are a lot of traditional organizations involved, such as the Tilbury Rotary Club, Tilbury Kinsmen, and several local businesses," said Harvieux, adding that residents will be able to enjoy both new and returning holiday floats, along with decorations and lights.
"So far, we have 15 entries and there is still room for more," said Harvieux. "We have Santa Claus who will be on-site too. There will also be treats being safely distributed from the floats."
After experiencing a high volume of traffic during previous events, Harvieux said a plan is in place to try and avoid traffic backups as best as possible.
"We will have police officers on-site to help direct the flow of traffic," said Harvieux. "The parade will also be taking place on one side of the road, the north side of the road at both Lally Ford and Tilbury Chrysler."
He said vehicles will enter into the first driveway at Tilbury Chrysler, which will take them towards the first float. The route will take vehicles down one side and back up the other.
"It seems to flow a lot better," said Harviuex. "There will be a wait, but we are going to do our best to keep everyone entertained."
The best part of organizing the parade, for Harviuex, is seeing the joy on people's faces as they browse through the decorated displays, he said.
"We are looking forward to it being a good time and a nice way to kick off Christmas."
The drive-by parade on November 26 is in addition to a second stop that Santa will be making in Tilbury.
Santa and Mrs. Claus are also scheduled to drive by residents' homes on Saturday, December 4, 2021.