Santa’s Parade of Lights is a Christmas parade that takes place at night on the last Saturday in November each year. The parade makes its way along St-Joseph Blvd. in Orleans.

This parade was created in 1998 by Gloucester Firefighters supporting local charities. Today, Santa’s Parade of Lights is proud to entertain crowds in excess of 120,000 people with over 3000 participants both young and old. Toys and cash donations are collected by Firefighters walking the route which are then donated to the Salvation Army’s Annual Toy Drive.

Each entry is decorated in many types of lights by local schools, businesses, and community groups who put hundreds of hours into making their entry unique. This parade is quite unique and really lights up the night sky!

Help us build CTV and MOVE 100’s Toy Mountain in support of The Salvation Army.

The parade, anchored by the jolly man in red, will make its way from St. Jerome Elementary (4330 Spratt Rd) north to École Bernard-Grandmaître (4170 Spratt Rd)—a joyful celebration for all to enjoy!

If you wish, please bring a new, unwrapped toy to help brighten the season for families in need across Ottawa.

It’s that time of year when kids everywhere are making their lists and checking them twice. For many children in Ottawa, however, it’s a little different – this year, more than ever. Their hoped-for toy may not be under the tree waiting Christmas morning unless we have your help.
The Help Santa Toy Parade is back on track for 2025 for our 56th year! The parade will be occurring on November 22, 2025 at 11:00am.
We are so excited to have everyone lining the streets to cheer on Santa as he delivers joy to children everywhere.
Give generously to the “Help Santa Campaign” where your donations will go directly to support the important work of CTV and MOVE 100’s Toy Mountain in support of Ottawa's Toy Mountain. Toy Mountain gives toys to local families that might otherwise not be able to have gifts at Christmas.
There will be a new route this year. It will be in a similar location. Stay tuned for the update!