There won't be a Santa Claus parade in Chatham this year but that doesn't mean he won't be making a visit to the Maple City.
The Historic Downtown Chatham BIA has cancelled the 2020 Santa Claus parade because of the COVID-19 pandemic but still has a little fun in store for Christmas lovers.
"As per the Coordinator, Active Transportation and Special Events of the Municipality of Chatham-Kent and for the safety of all of our Chatham-Kent families, we will not be holding our annual Santa Claus Parade, downtown Chatham 2020," said BIA Chair Paul Shettell. "There is no way to social distance 3,000 to 5,000 people."
The BIA said it's offering a contest called a “Month of Santa” instead of the parade. It is similar to finding Waldo but contestants will be looking for Santa. Each Tuesday in November, Santa will be out at one of the BIA's businesses in downtown Chatham and a photo will be posted on their Facebook page where the public can try and guess where Santa is. A family prize pack will be given out at the end of the week during a random draw of all the correct answers. The businesses in downtown Chatham will also be staying open later on November 12, 13, and 14 for their Home For The Holidays Open House. Locations will be set up to drop off non-perishable goods, financial aid, teddy bears, and toys that would have been collected by local charities during the parade. Finally, on Saturday, November 28, Santa Claus himself will be sitting high in his sleigh in front of the Downtown Chatham Centre to allow passing children to see him. People are being asked to wear a mask and keep six feet apart to stay healthy.
"Santa said he loves Chatham and just had to come out and see the kids at least once before Christmas," Shettell said. "We all know what we really want is to get up and close with Santa but this is a "special" year that hopefully only occurs this year. Just let the kiddies know that Santa will be at their house when it's most important - Christmas Morning!"
