Merry and Bright in Downtown Welland: Santa Claus Parade and Tree Lighting
Visitors can watch the holiday parade make its way along East Main Street to Civic Square for the lighting of Welland's Christmas tree. Following the parade, guests can take photos, mail letters to Santa, create crafts with the Niagara Art Gallery, and meet festive characters. Attendees can also watch a chili cookoff between local firefighters and regional police.
See more Christmas lights near Welland
Plan Your Visit
Website / Tickets
When
Hours
Event: 5 to 8 p.m.; parade starts at 5 p.m. sharp; chili cookoff at 6:30 p.m.; tree lighting after the parade.
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Welland
Food & Drink
A chili cookoff is featured.
Going?
Location
Tips & Advice
- Arrive before the 5 p.m. start, which the city says is sharp, so you are in place before the parade begins.
- Follow the published route from East Main and Wellington Streets west along East Main to Civic Square to choose where to watch.
- Bring only new Mitten Tree donations, such as warm accessories, toys, toiletries, towels, blankets, or canned and boxed non-perishable food.
- Prepare holiday letters before arriving so children can mail them to Santa at Civic Square after the parade.
- Dress warmly for the evening parade and tree lighting, as visitors will be watching along the route and at Civic Square.
Links & Contact
Run by City of Welland
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can visitors do at Civic Square after the parade?
Meet festive characters, take photos, mail letters to Santa, make a holiday craft with the Niagara Art Gallery, and join Santa for the tree lighting.
What happens at the chili cookoff?
Welland Fire and Emergency Services and Niagara Regional Police Services compete in the cookoff.
Can I take part in the parade?
Yes. Parade information and an application are available for people interested in participating.
What can I bring for the Mitten Tree?
Bring new items such as mittens, hats, scarves, socks, toiletries, towels or blankets, children’s toys, or canned and boxed non-perishable food.
Where does the parade route go?
It starts at East Main and Wellington Streets, travels west on East Main Street, and ends at Civic Square.
Browse Christmas in Welland
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.