Planning for the 2025 Santa Claus Parade is now well underway, and the Orillia & District Chamber of Commerce (ODCC) is inviting community groups and local businesses to submit their float registrations. This year, the event will take place on Saturday, November 22 starting at 5:00 p.m.
Presented by Eagle Landscaping and Norscape Landscape and Pond Depot, the annual Santa Claus Parade is one of Orillia’s most cherished holiday traditions. Last year’s event featured nearly 100 floats, and with strong early interest this year, participation is expected to surpass that number.
Float registration is available online at https://www.orillia.com/float/ . There is no registration fee for non-profits, community groups, and members of the ODCC. A small fee applies to for-profit, non-chamber member businesses to help cover costs associated with policing and bands.
Float entries can consist of anything from decorated vehicles to walking groups to full floats. Music and light elements are encouraged wherever possible. Some sources of inspiration for float design include winter holidays, snow sports, or movies.
When registering, participants are asked to note the rules, insurance requirements, and terms of the release and waiver. ODCC events staff will follow up wherever there is a concern; however, in general entrants can take their confirmation email as confirmation of registration. The events team will reach out in the weeks leading up to the parade with instructions for the day of the event.
Participating in the Santa Claus Parade is a great way for businesses and organizations to give back to the community. It can also be a great way to advertise, as well as a fun teambuilding opportunity for staff. Parade attendance is typically in the thousands.
Entering a float is not the only way to get involved in the parade. There are a variety of sponsorship options available, and volunteers are also needed.
Sponsor registration is available at: https://www.orillia.com/sponsor/
Volunteers can sign up at: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfZR4s0pkKOqh-
7HGUACb7wtDRvSMPCuYeRH5VTZ029ec3AJA/viewform .
Parade updates will be posted on the Orillia & District Chamber of Commerce Facebook page and on orillia.com. The Orillia & District Santa Claus Parade would not be possible without the support of the members of the Orillia & District Chamber of Commerce. A directory of chamber members is available at www.orillia.com.
