Bloomfield lights up with Christmas cheer for Santa Claus

Thousands of spectators enjoyed cool, but pleasant weather Friday night to welcome Santa Claus to Bloomfield’s annual nighttime parade.

Favourite carols of the season played from Bloomfield United Church, filling Main Street with cheer as large crowds awaited the main event.

While waiting, people shopped in the village and kept warm with hot chocolate, cider and snacks, served at several locations. Some also enjoyed a horse-drawn carriage ride through the village while they waited for the parade to begin.

Small campfires warmed up guests at the Bloomfield Public House while next door in the parking lot, people danced and sang along with Peter Rea, Clint Ryan and other guests of the Breezeway Live.

Spectators overflowed from curbside – from the parade’s start on Stanley Street throughout the length of Main – and cheered and applauded the many creative floats and entries.

Shouts of Merry Christmas were shared from the floats and the audience in a flurry of twinkling lights. Children were thrilled to receive small chocolate milk drinks from the PEC Junior Farmers, or a Christmas carrot from Hagerman Farms, along with the usual cascade of candy tossed out to eager recipients.

The bedazzling event ended with the delightful Cherry Valley Frasers car, followed by the Queen’s University Bands, marchers and performers heralding Santa’s arrival. The jolly old elf was the star of the show for little ones (and bigger ones) who waved and cheered his arrival.