The Orillia Santa Claus Parade, presented by Eagle Landscaping & Norscape Landscape and Pond Depot, returns on Saturday, November 22, 2025, and the Orillia & District Chamber of Commerce (ODCC) is calling on volunteers to help make the magic happen.
Each year, the ODCC organizes and facilitates this beloved community tradition, which is made possible by Chamber members and the generosity of local sponsors. The parade has been known as one of the largest outside of Toronto, and is on track again this year to have over 100 floats.
The parade’s success over the years has been thanks to the efforts not only of ODCC staff but also volunteers who help with everything from planning to marshalling to collecting donations. Organizations like the Lions Club, Rotary Club, and Kiwanis Club have been key in helping out with various aspects of the parade, and countless
individuals from the community have found joy in donating their time.
“While the Orillia & District Chamber of Commerce organizes the parade, it’s truly the community that brings it to life,” says Allan Lafontaine, Executive Director of the ODCC. “We rely on local volunteers to keep this century-old tradition strong and joyful for everyone.”
The biggest need for volunteers this year is for banner carriers, who walk with the sponsor banners in the parade. While this seems like a simple task, it is essential to the success of the parade as banners provide recognition of the sponsors who make the parade possible.
Banner carriers will be asked to arrive at the parade staging area by 4:00 p.m., one hour before the parade begins. Volunteers will be treated to hot chocolate and donuts to help stay warm. The parade route is approximately 2.25 kilometres and typically takes just over an hour to complete. Participants should be prepared to be outdoors for 2.5 to 3 hours and are encouraged to dress warmly and wear suitable footwear, as weather conditions may vary.
Volunteering is a fun and rewarding way to be part of the holiday celebration, and a great opportunity for high school students to earn volunteer hours. Elementary school students are welcome too but must be accompanied by an adult if under 14. Adults, families, and sports teams are also encouraged to join in the fun and community spirit.
Those interested can sign up through the volunteer form at: Volunteer Sign-Up Form
For more information, email events@orillia.com. Individuals with mobility limitations or other accessibility needs are encouraged to reach out to discuss alternative volunteer opportunities.
The Orillia Santa Claus Parade has been a cherished annual tradition for well over a century and remains one of the largest parades north of Toronto. Local businesses, non-profit organizations, and community groups are also invited to enter floats and can register online at orillia.com/santa-claus-float-registration.
More about the Orillia Santa Claus Parade is available at www.orillia.com/santa or download the Explore Orillia Lake Country app and look for all things Christmas in the events section.
