Crowds brave cold for Fort Macleod parade

By Alexandra Noad - Lethbridge Herald Local Journalism Initiative Reporter on December 3, 2024.

Herald photo by Alexandra Noad A colour guard group performs during the Fort Macleod Santa Claus Parade on Saturday.

For the 41st year, hundreds of people braved the cold to watch the annual Fort Macleod Santa Clause Parade on Saturday.

The Fort Macleod Santa Claus parade is known to be the largest Santa Claus parade west of Toronto, with around 100 entries which includes six marching bands for a total of 800 instruments each year.

This year’s parade theme was Snow Globe Christmas, with many participants decorating their floats to the theme.

Though some bands were unable to attend due to the cold, the spectacular Calgary Stampede Showband braved the weather to highlight the parade.

The parade finale was an appearance by Santa himself.

Spectators were warmed by not only the Christmas spirit present, but also the free hot chocolate served by MNP.

Following the parade there was a Christmas market, photos with Santa, a performance from the Calgary Stampede Showband and the day finished off with a family dance.