This year, there won’t be a Santa Claus Parade in Tillsonburg, but the Tillsonburg and Area Optimist Club is working hard to keep the holiday cheer going with its very first Christmas display.
The Optimist Christmas Display is set for Nov. 21 from 1 p. m. to 4 p. m. at the Avondale United Church parking lot located between Harvey Street and Lisgar Avenue.
“It’s going to be a stationary Christmas display, and you can either drive or walk,” said Mandi Byrnes, a member of the club. “We will also be going live in our Facebook group so that anybody who does not feel safe coming out will be able to see it safely from their home.”
The whole parking lot at the church – which can hold around 200 vehicles – will be marked off.
“There’s so much room,” said Byrnes, “because we don’t know what to expect. We’re preparing for a large amount of vehicles, and if we don’t get them, that’s fine. But we want to be ready just in case.
Now that they’ve officially received approval from public health officials and the Town of Tillsonburg, the Optimist Club is moving forward with planning the displays.
Byrnes mentioned they’re keeping it on a smaller scale since they aren’t sure how many vehicles will come through.
The special guests will be Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus, who will greet visitors from their float.
There will also be floats featuring Olaf, the snowman from Frozen, as well as local firefighters.
“We are working on having more,” she said.
“It’s not going to look like a typical parade we’ve had in previous years where there are lots of business floats. We can’t go that route due to limited space available.”
Local student volunteers will design banners for the Christmas display.
The Tillsonburg and Area Optimist Club has mapped out the area for Saturday’s 1-4 p. m. Christmas Display. The entrance for vehicles is on Lisgar Avenue. (Submitted)
Two paths will wind through the parking lots starting from the entrance on Lisgar Avenue – one for cars and one for pedestrians.
“We’re going to keep walkers and vehicles completely separate so there’s no confusion or anyone walking where cars go. We just want everyone to stay safe.”
Southwestern public health advised maintaining at least three metres between displays. People on floats must also keep appropriate physical distance unless they’re part of the same family bubble.
“There are a few challenges we haven’t faced before,” said Byrnes. “Making sure everyone is safe is our number one concern.”
The planning has been ongoing for over a month with discussions involving town staff and Southwestern public health authorities.
A food bank element will also be included; firefighters who have traditionally collected donations for Helping Hand Food Bank during parades can accept grocery store gift cards in their buckets or firefighter boots this time around.
“I’d just like to thank the Optimist for making this happen despite everything,” said Byrnes. “I’d also like to express my gratitude toward the town for helping us make this event possible.”
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