COLD LAKE - Despite the freezing temperatures, the Cold Lake community gathered to celebrate the annual Santa Claus Parade on Nov. 29, followed by Santa's Kickoff Christmas Party at the Cold Lake Energy Centre.
The free, family-friendly event featured festive floats, activities for children, and holiday cheer, drawing in crowds of all ages.
The parade, a long-standing tradition in Cold Lake, saw local businesses, organizations, and residents coming together to showcase their holiday spirit. Afterward, the excitement continued at the Energy Centre, where children and families enjoyed photos with Santa, sparkle tattoos, bouncy castles, face painting, balloon twisting, a 360 photo booth, and even appearances by Olaf and the Grinch.
Roxie Voviau, who attended the Kickoff Christmas Party with her children, shared her excitement.
“For my kids . . . they like to just come see Santa Claus.”
“We’ve been doing it forever. I moved here in 2012, and it's been just a thing that's always been,” said Katie Pankhurst, Community Event Programmer for the City of Cold Lake, who spoke about the annual tradition of hosting the parade.
The parade featured a friendly competition with prizes for the best float categories – Best Not-for-Profit, Best Business and Mayor’s Choice.
“The public gets to vote for the best business, best not-for-profit, and then the mayor obviously gets to pick his,” Pankhurst explained.
This year, the event saw a mix of longtime participants and newcomers for the parade.
“There were tons of people out there . . . even -20C, there’s so many people that came out for it. It’s a great opportunity for the businesses to do something for the community,” Pankhurst said.
She noted the appearance of some new businesses in the parade lineup. “I noticed a lot of new ones were out there, like the sauna one, they're a new business in town, and it’s a great opportunity for them and just for the public as well.”
Pankhurst emphasized the importance of the event for the community, highlighting how it brings joy and excitement to the children of Cold Lake.
“Mainly it’s for the kids. Something for them to do and enjoy and get excited for Santa Claus. He’s coming to town."
