On Tuesday, October 12th, 2021, the Airdrie Parades Committee announced that it has cancelled the 2021 Santa Claus Parade.
 
Sam Morros, the Co-Chair of the Airdrie Parades Committee said that the decision was put off as long as was possible, but ultimately, the committee decided that with the COVID-19 pandemic and current health restrictions in place, the parade would not be feasible.
 
"It was a tough one. We've been holding out as long as we possibly can. Folks that are familiar with the event, know that Thanksgiving weekend is when we typically open float registration," she said. "Keeping an eye on sort of the trends that we're seeing over the last couple of weeks, we don't think it's likely that we'll see enough positive change in the next few weeks for us to be able to pull something like this off."
 
Morros added that the committee is not giving up on the Christmas spirit quite yet though and that there are plans for an alternative, socially distanced Christmas spectacle.
 
"It's in the early stages, so I can't say too much," Morros said. "But it is something that we're hoping families can enjoy on their own, versus all gathering in one big area. And it's still a great way to get out and about and celebrate Airdrie and see the Christmas sites." 
 
Airdrie's Santa Claus Parade is held annually and is a beloved Christmas pastime with Christmas lights, music, colourful and cheery floats created by local businesses and organizations and of course the man of the hour- Santa Claus himself.
 
Morros, herself expressed regret at the cancellation, saying many of her own treasured holiday memories are tied to the event.
 
"My personal favourite [part] is all of the Christmas lights because we encourage floats to have as many Christmas lights as they can," she said "I love seeing kids light up when Santa Claus goes by pulled in the big wagon by the big horses. So that is absolutely what I've missed."
 
Morros said she is hopeful that in one year's time the Santa Claus Parade will resume and things will finally be back to normal.
 
"Here's to 2022," Morros said. 
 
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