momstown Niagara in Niagara-on-the-Lake Santa Claus Parade

  With over 100 floats, the Niagara-on-the-Lake Santa Claus parade is one of the biggest and best in Ontario, which is why we were so excited to enter our very own momstown Niagara Christmas float this year.  Although it was a rainy day, it cleared up just in time for the parade to start and it was a balmy 8 degrees outside!

adding the final touches before the parade starts

....with a little help from my friend

  I've been in a Santa Claus parade before, but sitting on a float and waving and building a float are of no comparison.  I couldn't have pulled it off without the help of my friends and family, who are always willing to lend a hand. When we pulled our resources together it all worked out!  I started out with a pickup truck and ended up with an awesome float.  I am so fortunate that everyone stepped up to help out, especially those who have their own businesses and experience with parades.  Special thanks to Dean Cartage and Sugar & Spice Retreat Spa and my husband, who while driving the truck, also kept a 2, 3 and  4 year old busy in there!  I definitely have a new appreciation for all the work that goes into creating a float, but the end result is totally worth it.  Our float was a huge hit with all of the families, especially the Santa Claus legs sticking out of the chimney and it was so rewarding to be able to bring smiles to the faces of all the kids standing along the parade route!

Santa Claus heading down the chimney

  Niagara-on-the-Lake is such a charming, picturesque town, perfect for an afternoon with the family, especially during the Christmas season. When we rounded the corner and started heading down historic Queen St., I felt a rush of excitement with the hundreds of people gathered around and waiting to see us.  All the little shops had their window displays beautifully decorated for the holidays, the sound of laughing children anxiously waiting for Santa to arrive and the Christmas carols were coming from all the floats.  The magic of Christmas was in the air!  It reminded me of how exciting it was as a child to have my parents bring me to a parade.  These are memories that will last a lifetime and it's so nice to see the next generation enjoying the same traditions.

  The kids loved the momstown Niagara stickers we handed out and we gave moms the gift of a free 4 week trial membership.  All in all, our first parade experience was a success.  Our float came together perfectly and we spread the word about momstown Niagara coming in January 2013!