PHOTOS: ‘Awesome’ Holiday Parade of Lights brings Haligonians downtown
The parade was full of smiles and holiday cheer despite the chilly evening
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Sheena Martin, middle, attended the parade with her mother, Beverly Martin, back, and two daughters, Vayda Martin-Shay, left, and Charlotte Martin-Shay, right.Thousands of people lined the streets of downtown Halifax on Saturday night to watch the SaltWire Holiday Parade of Lights. Cold and windy weather had children’s eyes peeking out from under hats and puffy jackets.
The route, which saw changes this year, started on Cogswell Street at North Park Street. It then proceeded to pass by Citadel Hill via Ahern Avenue and Bell Road. From there, the parade passed South Park Street leading to Spring Garden Road and ended on Barrington Street at George Street.
More than 40 groups participated in the parade this year, with large vibrants floats from the Shaw Group and The Village Shops at Dartmouth Crossing. There were a variety of colours displayed, accompanied by an array of lights that were strung across cars and floats. Attendees also added to the abundance of lights by wearing blinking red Rudolph noses and colourful Christmas light necklaces.
The parade had been postponed from Nov. 18, due to rain and wind warnings.
Sheena Martin attended the parade with her two daughters and her mother. The three generations enjoyed spending the parade together.
“It was awesome. There’s so many people down here this year, it’s insane. It’s my little one’s first year where she could actually be really excited about it,” said Martin. Her other daughter Vayda Martin-Shay said seeing Santa at the end of the parade was her favourite part.
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This parade attendee was walking down the street smiling while waiting for the parade to pass by.
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There were plenty of smiles and “happy holidays” shouted from this group walking with the SaltWire Holiday Parade of Lights banner.
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The Shriners drove miniature cars which made parade-watchers smile and laugh.
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A few dogs even showed up to spread some holiday cheer.
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A live band performed on top of the CAA float.
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Frosty the Snowman, aboard The Village Shops at Dartmouth Crossing float, made an appearance.
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The Shaw Group had a colourful float that featured the Grinch.
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Exit Realty had a miniature house complete with a white picket fence floating down the streets.
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Halifax’s popular Harbour Hopper made an appearance, donned in Christmas lights and a red nose.
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A young Canada Post helper was collecting letters to be delivered to Santa Claus.
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Santa Claus made an appearance and closed out the parade.About the author
Hannah Veinot
Hannah is a fourth-year journalism student from Dartmouth. She enjoys storytelling and getting to meet interesting people.