Oakville's 78th Santa Claus Parade is November 14: how to enter a float, volunteer or join the colouring contest
The Town says the parade steps off at 9 a.m. on Saturday, November 14 in downtown Oakville with the theme “North Pole Sweets and Treats!” Float and band applications close November 1.
The details
The parade
Oakville’s 78th annual Santa Claus Parade steps off at 9 a.m. on Saturday, November 14, 2026 in downtown Oakville, the Town said in an October 7 release. This year’s theme is “North Pole Sweets and Treats!”
The parade dates back to 1948, when it was first organized by Bill Hughes, then President of the Junior Chamber of Commerce, to bring people to downtown Oakville. The planning committee is led by Councillor Scott Xie, and the Community Champion Sponsor is Rosehaven Homes.
How to take part
- Apply by Monday, October 26 at 11:59 p.m. Students needing volunteer hours are welcome.
- Apply by Sunday, November 1 at 11:59 p.m. The best overall float wins free entry in the 2027 parade.
- Submit by Monday, November 2 at 4 p.m. Entrants must be at least 10 years old; the winner rides with Mrs. Claus as Honorary Grand Marshal.
Applications for floats, walking groups and bands are on the Town’s “Join the Parade” page. Colouring contest entries use a sheet designed by artist Yen Linh Thai and are submitted as a scanned copy or photo by email to events@oakville.ca.
Sponsors and contact
Local businesses can sponsor the parade; details are in the Town’s Special Event Sponsorship Package. The Community Champion Sponsor is Rosehaven Homes. Questions can be sent to events@oakville.ca.
Sources
Town of Oakville
Get involved in Oakville’s 2026 Santa Claus Parade