Brampton mayor ‘perplexed’ by decision to cancel Santa Claus Parade
Published October 24, 2021 at 12:26 pm
The Brampton Santa Claus Parade won’t be happening again this year, and many aren’t happy with the news, including Mayor Patrick Brown.
It was recently announced that the parade would be cancelled for a second year in a row, again citing COVID-19 as a concern.
Brown said he doesn’t support canceling outdoor events due to the lower risk of transmitting COVID-19 outdoors, as well as the fact that much of the population is fully vaccinated.
“I think it is time that outdoor functions carry on like they have historically from Halloween to Santa Claus Parades,” said Brown.
“If we can have large indoor sporting events and concerts, I am perplexed why any outdoor event would be canceled.”
As the parade isn’t a city-run event, the mayor doesn’t have much of a say on whether or not it happens.
Videos
While the parade won’t be the same as usual this year, organizers will be broadcasting a Christmas presentation on November 27 that residents will be able to watch for free from their homes.
Barbara Schembri, president of the Brampton Santa Claus Parade Committee, says the broadcast will incorporate floats, Christmas music, dance performances, and an appearance from jolly old St. Nick himself.
“The special broadcast will be aired on our YouTube channel which is available through our website and on our Social Media links,” Schembri said. “Santa assures us he is coming to Brampton, and we will welcome him during the broadcast!”
The hope is, as more vaccines are administered and coverage continues to rise, that the parade will be able return in its full form in 2022.
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