For the first time ever, the Santa Claus Parade teams up with the Festival of Lights to create an action-packed kick-off to the holiday season on Main Street in Markham.

Saturday, November 29, the fun starts at 10am as the Santa Claus parade winds its way from Highway 7 and heads north to the Markham Museum. More than 100 floats will be featured, including such olde tyme favourites as marching bands, pipes and drums, and of course, Santa and his reindeer.

Immediately after the parade, Santafest, a new event this year, will feature:

Santa in his castle – Come get your picture taken with Santa.
Entertainment all day on the main stage, spotlighting some of your favourite local talent.
Fabulous food, street entertainers, magicians, carolers, petting zoo and much more!
The Festival of Lights opens at 5:00PM, with Mayor Frank Scarpitti, members of council and local politicians performing the Grand Tree Lighting Ceremony on the main stage. Winners from the "Best Dressed Window" contest will be announced, followed by fireworks.

And the fun has already begun!

The annual "Best Dressed Window Contest" is underway, and this year, it’s a people’s choice award. So...you be the judge. Visit any participating merchant to fill in a ballot. Winning votes will be tallied and the top three winners will be announced at the Festival of Lights. Each entry is automatically entered to win a $25 gift certificate, redeemable at any Main Street Markham store or service.

Pictures from the Centre of Dreams Festival of Trees colouring contest will be posted in the shops on Main Street. Come out and see your child's masterpiece on display for all to admire.

Mark your calendar now for November 29. Don't miss the Santa Claus parade, Santafest and the Festival of Lights! For more details, see www.mainstreetmarkham.com