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The streets of Elliot Lake were lined with traffic Friday evening as residents toured the community to take in the 41st Santa Claus Parade.
But this year’s event was celebrated without the traditional parade through the city and instead with floats, and holiday lights displays spread out at different locations throughout the city with COVID-19 self-distancing restrictions in place.
It was an opportunity for residents to take a drive through Elliot Lake and see the displays in the comfort and warmth of their own vehicles or on city transit buses.
This year’s celebration was dubbed a "static” display with the theme “Candy Land” because the traditional street parade was cancelled in tune with a safer event because of COVID-19 restrictions.
Almost 40 Elliot Lake businesses, community organizations, clubs and homes brought in the holiday season for the 41st Santa Claus parade this evening. Also homeowners who didn’t register to be in the parade of the festivities had their decorative lights on.
Traffic was steady as people made their way from display to display with Santa Claus, outside city hall, proving to be a favourite. He greeted motorists as they made their way around the drive-thru in front of city hall, wishing everyone a Merry Christmas
City organizers of the event will be handing out prizes for best overall float and first and second place prizes for businesses, service clubs and residents. The winners will be announced on Monday and are expected to be posted on the city website.