Santa Claus is set to “sleigh” his annual parade through Fort St. John on Saturday, and the city said road closures around Centennial Park will be in place to keep attendees safe.
Floats will begin parading down 108 Avenue toward 100 Street at 5 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6, but road closures will begin at 3 p.m. The parade will continue north to 110 Avenue, where residents can enjoy festivities at Centennial Park and Festival Plaza while awaiting the tree lighting.
Roads will remain closed for two hours beforehand and for the duration of the parade for the safety of participants.
“Traffic congestion is expected near the parade route and marshalling areas. Please plan ahead and use alternate routes,” wrote the city in a statement, where they listed the closures. Much of the area around Centennial Park and Festival Plaza will be unavailable to drivers.
The city said 100 Street between 93 Avenue and 100 Avenue will be blocked off. As will 94 Avenue to 95 Avenue between 100 Street and 102 Street. 98 Street will also be closed from 108 Avenue to 112 Avenue. The final closure is planned for 110 Avenue between 98 Street and 100 Street.
While these roads are unavailable, paradegoers will see the tree light up, and will have a chance to meet Santa Claus, as well as his missus. To keep warm, complimentary treats are being provided by local organizations. Visitors can munch on a hotdog or heat up with hot chocolate.
Environment Canada is forecasting a wintry evening for the event, with a 70 per cent chance of flurries during the day. The daytime low is expected to be –13 C, dropping to –15 C in the evening.
