TORONTO — Santa Claus is moving to prime time in Toronto.
The city's annual Santa Claus parade will go broadcast-only this year, with a two-hour show set for the evening of Saturday, Dec. 5.
Organizers say there will be more than 20 floats, as well as musical guests and the traditional "celebrity clowns."
It's the first time there will be no in-person attendance in the 116-year history of the event, which typically has crowds of thousands lining the downtown parade route.
Toronto has also announced the cancellation of the city's popular Christmas market, as well as its annual New Year's Eve bash in Nathan Phillips Square.
Mayor John Tory says the Santa Claus parade marks the unofficial start of the holiday season in Toronto.
"Despite the ongoing pandemic, we've found a way to make sure Santa Claus is still coming to town. I am pleased that this tradition will continue in a way that families can safely enjoy,” Tory said in a statement Friday.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 2, 2020.
The Canadian Press
