Tavistock’s Santa Claus Parade draws record crowds and festive spirit

Shown decorating the Josslin Insurance float are, from left, Chase Osmond, Carter Osmond, Hunter Osmond, Amanda Scheerer, Nick Haycock, Ryan Bucholtz, Sophia Osmond, Carley Osmond and Snowman Scott Wagler. Gary West photo

By Gary West

Tavistock’s Santa Claus Parade on Saturday was another tremendous Men’s Club event, helped along by perfect weather and a fresh layer of snow from two days of wintery conditions.

With more floats than ever and crowds lining the streets, the village was alive with Christmas cheer as families gathered to enjoy one of the community’s favourite traditions.

Prize money was generously awarded by the Men’s Club for the best floats in each category, with judging completed by Paulette Roth, Brenda Wettlaufer and Leena Kuisiakose.

In the Organizations category, first place ($75) went to the Key Bible Club (KBC), second place ($50) to the Tavistock Agricultural Society and third place ($25) to the Tavistock Optimist Club.

For Commercial Floats, Tavistock Pre-School earned first place ($75), Transition’s Acres took second ($50) and Breaking Electric Dance Co. placed third ($25).

Doug Shirray of the Men’s Club noted this was the first year there were no family floats entered. He hopes to see more households join the fun next year.