Preparations are in full swing for the Uptown Saint John Santa Claus parade on Nov. 16 and the Lancaster Santa Claus parade on Nov. 23.
However, parade organizer Blaine Harris said that both parades might be cancelled because there aren’t enough participants registered to take part.
“We’re sitting with 20 in the uptown, where this time normally we’re sitting at 30-plus. On the west side parade we’re sitting at 11, where we would normally be sitting at 23, 24-plus,” said Harris.
Harris explained the reason why he believes there’s a float shortage is narrowed down to concerns over the weather and reaction over the $120 entry fee.
He clarified that the fee is intended for commercial businesses, while entries from not-for-profit and community organizations are exempt.
The funds gathered will cover parade insurance, policing costs, and provide travel donations to the bands. Any remaining funds will be donated to the Greater Saint John Food Bank.
According to Harris, if the float number isn’t achieved by the deadline of Nov. 8, there’s a possibility that one or both parades might be cancelled.
“The parade is not about me or you, it’s about the kids, and it’s a tradition that’s been held in every city and town across the continent, and the Santa Claus parade is the start of the holiday season for most communities, and its no different in Saint John,” added Harris.
“If people are interested in the parade and their corporation doesn’t want to pay the fee, then don’t pay the fee, we’re not gonna chase you for it.
“The people who are volunteering don’t get any credit and nobody gets paid for what we do. We enjoy what we do and we hope the people that are spectating and people taking part enjoy what they are doing.”
