Stationary Santa Claus parade decided for Cold Lake

Cold Lake has decided to change their annual Santa Claus parade as the city is under an enhanced COVID designation from the province.

Instead of the traditional parade with a longer route, the City said Friday they will opt for a “reverse” parade where decorated floats and displays will be stationary along 50 Avenue, while spectators drive past on a designated route to see the floats from their vehicle.

“It’s important that we are able to bring Santa and the Christmas floats back to Cold Lake for the kids this year, but we must do it safely,” said Mayor Craig Copeland in a press release.

“By avoiding groups of people gathering together on the sidewalk we can reduce the potential for virus spread, and families can enjoy the sights and sounds of the parade from the comfort and warmth of their vehicle.”

The reverse parade will be held on Friday, November 27 from 6:00-7:30 p.m.

In the last update to the AHS COVID-19 map, 11 infections are active in the Cold Lake area, a jump of eight new cases over three days.

Most of the Lakeland is under enhanced status, including Lac La Biche County, the M.D. of Bonnyville, County of St. Paul, and Smoky Lake County.

Bonnyville will be doing a similar stationary parade with floats set up at the Centennial Centre.

Spectator vehicles will enter 50 Avenue eastbound from Highway 28 and follow the route northbound on 49th Street.

Static floats and displays will be parked facing west on 50 Avenue and facing south on 49 Street, the City said.

Road closures will be in effect on 50 Avenue from Highway 28 to 49 Street, and 49 Street from 50 Avenue to 54 Avenue from 4-8 p.m.

The City continues to accept float registrations.

Forms are available online at www.coldlake.com and can be dropped off at the Energy Centre or emailed to energycentre@coldlake.com. Float registrants should be aware when decorating, the left or “driver’s side” of their float will be most visible to parade goers.