The Rotary Club of Bracebridge and Muskoka Lakes is preparing to hold its Santa Claus Parade at night in Bracebridge for the first time.
The parade will be held on Dec. 2, starting at 6 PM.
However, Don MacKay, Chair of the Santa Claus Committee, is asking the community for support to continue the not-for-profit parade. “We rely on generous donations to pay for things like town permits, liability insurance, band remuneration, and many other incidental expenses,” he says. “The Bracebridge Santa Claus Parade has always been run completely by volunteers.”
He says the call for donations was met in 2019 “and we really appreciate it” but MacKay says more support is needed ahead of the 2022 parade.
The club’s fundraising goal is $3,750 to cover the cost of this “important community event,” MacKay continues. The club is asking for 75 businesses to donate $50 each to help reach that goal.
Like in years past, MacKay says Santa Claus will stop by Memorial Park in downtown Bracebridge after the parade to visit with children. He says there will also be hot chocolate and treats available for free.
The Rotary Club of Bracebridge and Muskoka Lakes has been organizing the parade since 2008.