Santa Claus Parades
Santa Claus parades are taken out in many countries throughout the Christian world to formally denote the beginning of the holiday season. They are called Santa Claus parades because although the parades are long drawn out affairs, they almost always end with Santa (with his eight reindeers drawing the sleigh) bringing up the tail end of the parade. The parades are generally extravagant and elaborate affairs consisting of floats and marching bands playing Christmas carols. In fact, they have grown in size with each passing year and the more famous of these parades are televised around the world.
History and background
The history of the modern Santa parades may be traced to the ancient times when the Romans made triumphant entry into their country after victories in wars. These ancient Romans styled their celebratory parades on the ceremonies performed for different gods and since Santa Claus represents St. Nicholas, the wheel seems to have come full circle. Santa Claus Parades may have had humble beginnings but during their history of 100 odd years have grown to ludicrous magnitudes.
Some famous parades from around the World
- Toronto’s Santa Claus Parade was first begun in 1905 and in its 102-year history has grown to become one of the biggest events of its kind in North America and the world. The very first parade was evidently a one-man show, but the idea was so novel and ingenuous that it charmed all those who came to watch it. The following year, trumpeters and footmen were added to the mix. The store (Eaton’s) that started the parade exists no longer but the parade itself has gone from strength to strength so that it is now the largest Santa Parade in the world with over 25 floats and more than 1500 participants of all ages taking part in the Parade.
- The Adelaide Christmas Pageant was begun in 1933 in Adelaide, Australia and is held every year in November. The parade is televised not only on the local T.V. station but also in New Zealand and other places in the Southern hemisphere.