Dancing Santa Tells Me It's Christmas Soon

Every year, we unpack the dancing Santa and I know it's going to be Christmas soon.

I would imagine most folks who celebrate Christmas will have something similar that says -- hey it's that time!

My family mementos got me thinking about Toronto's deep relationship with Santa Claus.

Now, if you're from here you're probably familiar with the iconic Santa Claus Parade (formerly the Eaton's Santa Claus parade -- sigh ... the times, they certainly do change).

You maybe lined up -- your dad possibly put you on his shoulders -- you cheered as floats, marching bands and other characters walked by, waiting until .... he arrived!

Santa on foot was ok ...

But really, it was Santa in his sleigh (and those great gifts he had) that got a kid excited.

If you're interested in the history of the parade, there are even some books you could read including A Mile of Make-believe: A History of the Eaton's Santa Claus Parade.





The Osborne Collection of Early Children's Books even has some vintage Eaton's Santa Claus Parade colouring books from the 1950s. If you're wondering who the character beating the drum is ... well that's Punkinhead and I refer you to this blog on him to find out more information (he first appeared in the Eaton's parade in 1948).

There are many good blogs on the Eaton's Parade that have loads of information and great vintage photos:

I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.