The Mississauga Santa Claus Parade ‘sleighed’ expectations

On November 22, the City of Mississauga hosted the annual Light Up the Square event at Celebration Square, presented by TD, along with its first Santa Claus Parade in the downtown core. City roadways were packed, as people lined the streets with excitement. It is estimated the evening attracted more than 40,000 onlookers from across Mississauga and beyond, all smiling and waving in celebration. Events like this help bring the community together and support local retailers, restaurants and downtown businesses.

Light Up the Square delivered

Celebration Square transformed into a dazzling winter wonderland, featuring a stunning Christmas tree, live entertainment, family-friendly activities, beautiful twinkling lights and festive decorations.

The event was emceed by local media favourites Liem Vu and Jaden Lee-Lincoln from Global News Toronto. Families and friends gathered to enjoy the live entertainment, featuring performances by Soul Sublime, SHOUT! The Band and the captivating LED hoop dancing by Theland Kicknosway. The Square’s outdoor ice rink welcomed skaters of all ages, adding to the holiday atmosphere.

Santa Claus really did come to town

Themed, “Shine Bright, Sauga!” the Santa Claus Parade was decked out with more than 58 participating groups featuring bright and colourful LED lights, five marching bands and hundreds of participants in festive costumes. The parade route weaved through the crowded downtown streets, led by Santa himself.

Starting at Rathburn Drive and Living Arts Drive, the parade travelled along Living Arts Drive, turned left onto City Centre Drive, and finished at City Centre Drive and Kariya Gate. As the parade made its way through Celebration Square, Santa lit the towering 35-foot Christmas tree, filling the area with even more festive spirit.

The Holiday Express Stop at Living Arts Drive and Princess Royal Drive offered guests a chance to hop aboard and enjoy trackless train rides, illuminated art displays and taste delicious treats from the local food trucks, all while experiencing incredible views of the parade. Candy Cane Corner at Square One featured bustling busker performances, interactive musical bikes and more festive food options.

Mayor Carolyn Parrish and Deputy Mayor John Kovac served as co-parade marshals and led the parade through the city centre.

Santa Claus Parade boosts holiday spirit

Previously hosted by the Mississauga Auto Mall, Mississauga’s Santa Claus Parade has a proud legacy of spreading joy to the community. With the support of Council, Mayor Parrish volunteered to take the reins to organize the event as a major downtown attraction this year, with support from City staff, non-profit groups and other local community partners.

In early November, Council approved $100,000 from the City’s portion of the Municipal Accommodation Tax (MAT) reserve to fund the 2025 Santa Claus Parade. This investment aimed to help enhance tourism, support local businesses and restaurants, while contributing to the City’s downtown revitalization by providing seasonal programming.

With large crowds and a big turnout, local restaurants, shops and businesses were bustling with increased activity before and after the parade.

As a pilot event for the City, the parade served as an example of how future holiday events can attract residents and draw visitors to Mississauga’s downtown. It highlights the importance of ongoing investment and growth to generate positive economic benefits.

The parade’s success was made possible thanks to the incredible support of our partners. A special thank you to Mississauga Auto Mall and Square One for their major contributions which helped bring this celebration to life. The City also appreciates Coca-Cola Canada Bottling Limited for sponsoring Photos with Santa.

Quotes

“This was truly one of my favourite moments of 2025! I am absolutely thrilled with the incredible turnout and all the wonderful people who came together to make this event so special. A heartfelt thank you to our generous sponsors, partners, volunteers, and our amazing City staff for their support to bring the parade back downtown. Because of you, the Light Up the Square & Santa Claus Parade was a tremendous success, setting the perfect tone for the start of the holiday season in Mississauga. I can’t wait until next year!” – Mayor Carolyn Parrish

“This family-friendly holiday event is just what Mississauga needed, an evening filled with joy, celebration, and a touch of Christmas magic! Thank you to Mayor Parrish as she had the vision for this event and worked hard to make it happen. She rallied support from our Council colleagues, collaborated with City staff, met with community partners, helped with sponsorships, and played a big role in the planning and logistics of this large-scale event. Much of the parade’s success is owed to the Mayor’s leadership, creativity, and unique ability to bring people together.”– Deputy Mayor John Kovac

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• Arts and Culture
• Events and Exhibitions
• Tourism