Christmas is still weeks away but the holiday parades are already upon us. The twinkling lights, colourful floats, merry music and of course the big guy, Santa Claus himself, will all be out in full force.

There are a number of parades going on both in the city of Ottawa and in the neighbouring communities. We have compiled a list of some of the seasonal events. So, check them out, you don’t want to miss out on the fun!

I won’t be able to make it to them all…but I’m hoping to hit up at least of few of these fun events.

Kanata-Hazeldean Mall/Lions Club Santa Claus Parade

November 12, 10:00 am

This is the first Ottawa area parade to kick off the holiday season. The route starts at Terry Fox and Castlefrank and travels towards the Hazeldean Mall. Don’t forget to bring your non-perishable food items. They will be collected for the Kanata Food Cupboard.

Ottawa- Help Santa Toy Parade

November 19, 11:00 am

One week from now Santa Claus will be making his way through downtown Ottawa. It’s a route old Saint Nick should be familiar with. Every year since 1969, the Ottawa Professional Fire Fighters’ Association has been organizing the Help Santa Toy Parade. Firefighters collect new toys and donations along the route. The gifts are then donated to less fortunate children in Ottawa. The parade heads east on Wellington then south on Bank and east on Laurier. So bundle up, bring along a toy, and join in the fun.

Cornwall Santa Claus Parade

November 19, 5:00 pm

The theme of the 45^th annual Cornwall Santa Claus Parade is ‘A Disney Christmas.’ You can bet there will be at least a few Elsa and Olaf appearances. Parade goers should note, there is a new route this year. The parade will begin at St. Lawrence Intermediate and Secondary School and will travel west on Second street until Augustus street.

Barrhaven Lions Light Up the Night

November 20, 5:30 pm

Thousands of Christmas lights will line the streets of Barrhaven at this illuminating event. Parade goers can bring their appetites. There will be many tasty offerings along the route, as local food vendors will be set up all along Strandherd Drive. Non-perishable food items and cash donations will be collected for the local food bank.

Orleans- Santa Parade of Lights

November 26, 6:00 pm

The Ottawa Professional Firefighters Association hosts this brilliant display of lights along St. Joseph Blvd in Orleans. Last year more than 100 thousand spectators enjoyed the event. Donations of new toys and cash will be collected along the route by firefighters.

Stittsville- Parade of Lights

November 26, 6:00 pm

Stittsville’s parade is a community favourite that draws thousands of spectators. In addition to the parade, merry makers are invited to stay for the lighting of the Village Square Park and share in hot chocolate and cookies.

Almonte- Holiday Night Parade

December 4, 5:00 pm

This annual event kicks off at the Almonte and District Community Centre and loops through the picturesque town. Visitors can continue the holiday fun following the parade with hotdogs, hot chocolate and public skating at the Stewart Community Centre.