Kids believe in Santa; adults believe in childhood.
~ Cate Kennedy
The day had been mild for December 5 but the evening temperatures were dropping semi-rapidly. The wind picked up, adding to the chill and yet the childlike excitement in the night air was palpable. Santa Claus was indeed coming to the town of Peterborough.
Montreal and Toronto are known for their Santa parades but despite having lived thirty years in the former city and the better part of three more decades near the latter, I don't recall ever attending one. Peterborough is a small city and its parade route covers most of its main drag. I happen to live within a five minute walk of where it ended which made it easy for me to head over and wait with the growing crowd.
Grab a hat and some gloves, and tuck a potable into your pocket, and come join me.
I imagine that quite a few sugar plum fairies have danced their way through this studio each December.
It's apropos that this brightly-lit truck belonged to our electric company – Peterborough Utilities.
Uh-oh. It looks like some of the lights are making their escape to another float.
Perhaps they just wanted a chance to play on the Ferris wheel – cleverly designed with laundry baskets.
Most floats had their own music but every now and then, a live band would march through to entertain us. I believe this was an air cadets band.
Frosty the Snowman kept pretty comfy on this chilly night.
So did this Saint Bernard. Wait... we're ready for a refill. Share what's in your cask!
Kidlet faces were the most fun to watch. I'll have more of those for you as we go along.
Lakeview Bowling designed this float. Now I know what penguins do in their spare time.
I'm not a sports fan but I enjoyed reading about the Peterborough Huskies – a special needs hockey team for all ages and both genders.
A lightsaber duel in anticipation of The Force Awakens.
This very colourful presentation is from Electric City Live – a music magazine.
A little bit cute. A little bit creepy. But a whole lotta friendly when posing for the camera.
Here's a nod to our friends in New York City... I'm thinking of you, Daryl!
And finally, with the sound of jingling bells and a hearty "Ho Ho Ho," Santa made his way into the crowd.
Sweet faces were full of anticipation.
Santa waved to the wee ones.
And each kidlet knew he was looking right at them.
Bright eyes filled with the magic of the night.
And the beauty of the season.
Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas.
