Jolly Old Saint Nick will jingle his way down Bloor Street this Sunday for the 110th annual Santa Claus parade. Santa and his reindeers will start their journey at Christie Pits, travel east on Bloor to University Avenue, before making their grand finale at St. Lawrence Market. The parade is one of the city’s most popular events and resourceful parents are already sharing their “elf tips” on how to survive the day. Arrive extra early if you want a seat, take the subway as parking is limited, bring snacks and activities, dress the kids appropriately, and check for road closures.
What’s to do in the city after the parade concludes? Here’s a list of 10 amazing spots to take the kids along the route.
Check out an open house. Discover new neighbourhoods at an afternoon open house. (*Did you know…In 1919, Santa arrived for the parade by airplane, landing at the old Aerodrome on Eglinton Avenue. Sadly, this won’t happen today but the neighbourhood is still just as lively).
Christie Pits Park. The parade begins at Christie and Bloor Street, adjacent to the great Christie Pits playground (Tim Hortons is right across the street for hot chocolate and bathrooms).
Indoor jungle gym at the JCC. Warm up at the Jewish Community Centre at Bloor and Spadina Avenue. The centre offers an indoor jungle gym Sunday mornings for members and non-members.
Casa Loma. Take the kids for the afternoon to a real life gothic castle near Spadina.
Royal Ontario Museum. The ROM offers kids exhibits and full play areas. (*While dinosaurs are impressive, in 1913 Santa made his debut pulled by live reindeer brought in from Labrador).
Bata Shoe Museum. Test your children’s knowledge about footwear in Toronto’s unique shoe museum.
MoRoCo Chocolat. Enjoy a gourmet sipping chocolate at this decadent restaurant in the heart of Yorkville.
Eaton Centre Mall. Time to stretch your legs at Toronto’s largest shopping centre.
Grab a flick. Nearby theatres include the Varsity at Yonge and Bloor, Cineplex at Dundas, and Rainbow Cinema near Front Street.
Old Spaghetti Factory. Get off at Union Station and head to one of Toronto’s best family-friendly restaurants. (*In 1905, Santa arrived at Union Station by train for the first ever Santa Claus Parade).
Have another great spot to take the kids? Share it in the comments below.
