A Season of Lights, Laughter, and Local Tradition
There’s nothing quite like a Santa Claus Parade to mark the start of the holiday season. The floats sparkle, the bands play, the hot chocolate flows, and the community comes alive with joy.
Here in Southern Georgian Bay, our small towns and harbour villages go all out to make December magical — from Owen Sound’s twinkling downtown parade to the cozy charm of Creemore’s village streets.
So grab your mittens and camera — here’s your complete guide to this year’s Santa Claus Parades across Grey and Simcoe Counties.
Owen Sound Santa Claus Parade
Downtown Owen Sound
Saturday, November 15, 2025 | 5:00 PM
Hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Owen Sound
Owen Sound’s parade is one of the largest and most festive in the region. With sparkling floats, marching bands, and Santa himself arriving to light up the harbour city, this is a must-see kickoff to the season.
Local Tip: Arrive early to find a good spot along 2nd Avenue East — the heart of the city’s parade route. Downtown shops often stay open late with warm drinks and festive treats.
Collingwood Santa Claus Parade
Hurontario Street, Downtown Collingwood
Saturday, November 15, 2025 | 5:00 PM
Followed by the official Christmas Season Launch
Collingwood’s downtown turns into a snow globe for the evening, filled with family fun and small-town charm. As floats roll by, local businesses decorate their storefronts and the entire community gathers for the annual tree lighting.
Local Tip: Bundle up and make a night of it — stop by Gibson & Co. or Espresso Post for a cozy cup before the parade.
Wasaga Beach Santa Claus Parade
Dunkerron Avenue to the RecPlex, 1724 Mosley Street
Saturday, November 22, 2025 | 5:00–7:00 PM
Part of the Holiday Kickoff Weekend
Santa by the beach? Only in Wasaga! The Wasaga Beach parade brings a unique lakeside twist to this holiday tradition. Expect a bright procession of floats, live music, and community groups followed by the tree lighting ceremony and Holiday Market at the RecPlex.
Local Tip: Bring the kids early to enjoy the vendor booths and photos with Santa — parking fills quickly near the RecPlex.
Meaford Santa Claus Parade
Downtown Meaford
Saturday, December 6, 2025 | 5:15 PM
Part of Christmas on the Bay Festival (Dec 4–7)
Meaford transforms into a Christmas village each December during its Christmas on the Bay celebrations. The evening parade glows against the waterfront backdrop, followed by market stalls, local music, and hot cider by the firepits.
Local Tip: Visit the holiday market at Market Square before the parade — local artisans, warm drinks, and waterfront views make for a perfect evening.
Stayner Santa Claus Parade
Station Park → Hwy 26 → Airport Road → Old Foodland Lot
Saturday, December 6, 2025 | 10:30 AM
Organized by the Stayner Kinsmen Club
Start your Saturday morning with small-town Christmas charm! Stayner’s daytime parade features local floats, fire trucks, school bands, and, of course, Santa himself. Perfect for young families looking for daytime festivities.
Local Tip: Stop by Creemore Coffee Company or Stayner’s downtown bakeries afterward for a warm treat and family photos.
Creemore Santa Claus Parade
Downtown Creemore (Mill Street)
Saturday, December 6, 2025 | 1:30 PM
Organized by the Creemore Legion & Community Groups
Creemore delivers one of the most heartwarming parades in the area — small, friendly, and full of charm. Classic tractors, community floats, and Santa’s sleigh wind through the village as the smell of wood smoke and fresh baking fills the air.
Local Tip: Pair the parade with a visit to the Creemore Springs Brewery or local artisan shops for a cozy afternoon in one of Ontario’s most picturesque towns.
Thornbury’s Olde Fashioned Christmas & Parade
Downtown Thornbury (Bruce Street)
Friday, December 12, 2025 | Evening Parade & Tree Lighting
Part of Olde Fashioned Christmas Weekend
Thornbury’s beloved holiday tradition brings the magic of Christmas to life with carollers, twinkling lights, and Santa’s grand entrance. The main street glows with hundreds of candles and the festive spirit is contagious.
Local Tip: Visit local boutiques before the parade — the shops often offer treats and special discounts during the event.
At a Glance – Parade Schedule
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Town / Event
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Date
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Time
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Owen Sound
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Sat Nov 15 2025
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5:00 PM
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Collingwood
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Sat Nov 15 2025
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5:00 PM
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Wasaga Beach
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Sat Nov 22 2025
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5:00–7:00 PM
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Meaford
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Sat Dec 6 2025
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5:15 PM
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Stayner
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Sat Dec 6 2025
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10:30 AM
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Creemore
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Sat Dec 6 2025
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1:30 PM
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Thornbury (Olde Fashioned Christmas)
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Fri Dec 12 2025
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Evening Parade
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Tips for Enjoying Parade Season
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Arrive early: Good viewing spots fill up quickly.
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Dress warm: Layers, gloves, and warm boots are a must for evening parades.
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Bring cash: Many parades feature charity collections or hot chocolate stands run by local groups.
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Shop local: Support downtown businesses while you’re out enjoying the festivities.
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Capture memories: These parades are full of photo ops — from Santa’s sleigh to glowing floats against the winter night sky.
Experience the Magic of Our Communities
These parades represent more than just holiday fun — they highlight what makes our region special: community, tradition, and connection. Whether you live in Collingwood or are considering a move to the Grey Highlands, each of these towns showcases the warm, welcoming spirit that defines life in Southern Georgian Bay.