Santa Claus is comin’ to town Dec. 3 in Iqaluit

Iqaluit will kick off the holiday season with its annual Santa Claus parade and a visit from Santa himself on Dec. 3.

This was the winning entry in last year’s holiday-themed cookie contest. It was submitted by Samantha Abbott and London Penney. Second-place prize went to Vale Ri and the third-place finisher was Hanna Wolff. (Photo courtesy of Samantha Abbott)

All events are free of charge and everyone is invited to join in the fun, according to a schedule of events released by the City of Iqaluit this week.

People can participate in the Santa Claus parade by registering a float online. The registration period ends Dec. 1.

Although there were fewer floats in the parade last year than in previous years, recreation programmer Josie Coté said in an interview he is optimistic the numbers will return to pre-pandemic levels this year.

For the parade on Dec. 3, those who are participating should meet at the AWG Arena at noon and the parade will begin at 1 p.m.

Following the parade, Santa Claus will be at the Elders Qammaq from 2 to 4 p.m. to meet children and pose for photos.

As well, the Qammakuluit Christmas lights contest is back for another year, giving participants a chance to show off their holiday light and decoration displays. No registration is necessary, according to the city news release.

Judging will take place from 3 to 7 p.m. on Dec. 14, so participants are urged to have their displays ready and their lights turned on then. Winners will be announced on Dec. 15.

Meanwhile, bakers in the community are invited to participate in the holiday cookie decorating contest being held between Dec. 5 to 18.

Bakers and decorators are encouraged to post a picture of their holiday-themed decorated cookies to the City of Iqaluit’s recreation Facebook page between Dec. 5 and 18 for judging.

Contest winners will be announced Dec. 19.