The first Santa Claus Parade in La Ronge was hosted by the La Ronge Regional Fire Department on Saturday. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

By Derek Cornet

christmas spirit

Santa Claus Parade marks a first for La Ronge

Dec 22, 2024 | 6:05 PM

It was a low turnout for La Ronge’s first Santa Claus Parade held on Saturday.

The event was hosted by the La Ronge Regional Fire Department and it consisted of only a handful of vehicles with one float. It began at 5:30 p.m. at the Lac La Ronge Indian Band office and ended at about 6 p.m. at the Mel Hegland Uniplex.

While it was a new endeavor meant to bring a sense of Christmas spirit to the community, it failed to create the excitement of other annual parade like those held for Canada Day and Pride Month. Other communities in Saskatchewan such as Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon host similar parades in November.

Organizers didn’t think it was too late in the year for such an event to be held.

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“Communities host these types of events when it makes the most sense for their community,” said community services manager Connor Tessier.

“It has been a busy season so far with local programs and events, and this date was a winner as it’s the first day our youth are out of school for the holidays. It will be a great way to kickoff the holidays.”

The Santa Claus Parade was immediately followed by a Community Christmas Party, which included a family skate, sleigh rides, a bon fire, photos with Santa, face painting, games and prizes, food, beverages and more. It is the second consecutive party the municipality has hosted.

Santa Claus rode in the box of a truck for the new parade. (Derek Cornet/larongeNOW Staff)

“This event was made possible through the SaskLotteries Community Grant program, the Town of La Ronge and the La Ronge Regional Fire Department,” Tessier noted.

“So far, we have also partnered with Lake Country Coop, the La Ronge Elks, the La Ronge Curling Club, and RCMP. We expect there will be participation from local organizations in the parade.”

It unknown whether another Santa Claus Parade will be held in 2025 as the town evaluate programs and events to help ensure they meet the needs of the community. Considering the popularity of last year’s party, Tessier believes that portion will become an annual tradition.

Other upcoming events include a New Year’s Eve celebration at Jonas Roberts Memorial Community Centre. It will feature a roast beef meal, a dance and games. Fireworks will be set off at midnight. The event is a free family event and all children must be accompanied by a parent.

The Village of Air Ronge will also once again be hosting an event on Dec. 31 to ring in 2025. There will be a bonfire and hot chocolate at the marina at 7 p.m., which will be followed by a fireworks show at 8 p.m.

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derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com