Little boys and girls will be grinning ear to ear Saturday night as Santa Claus rolls into town.
The 59th annual London Santa Claus Parade begins at 6pm, taking off from Dundas St. and Egerton St., then heading west down Dundas St. to Ridout St. This year's theme is "A Candy Christmas" with 37 floats ready to bring Christmas cheer to Londoners.
"The parade is going to be an hour and 15 minutes long. I'd suggest spectators come out early because it is going to be a busy place," says Parade Executive Director Shaun Merton. "There is lots of new entertainment and lots of new bands, so we welcome everyone to come out and have a great time."
Like in years past, donations for a few different community groups will be collected along the route.
"We're collecting food for the London Food Bank, we're collecting toonies for the toonie toss, and the Komoka-Kilworth Optimists are selling "santa stop here flags" just before the parade starts for $2 each," says Merton.
The London Transit Commission is offering free rides to and from the parade between 4pm and 10pm for kids who qualify to pay the child's fare (age 5 - Grade 6) and are accompanied by an adult. Children under 5 always ride for free.
It's hoped the offer will encourage parents to leave their vehicles at home to avoid traffic and parking challenges.