How to Make the Most of the Toronto Santa Claus Parade

We've got a few tips on how to do the Santa Claus Parade—from getting there to what to wear. Because Santa Claus is coming to town.

Your SUV is exhausted (literally). Give it a break on parade day, trump the traffic and take the TTC to any point along the parade route. GO Transit offers a discounted fare for getting downtown on parade day. Good To Know if You Are Driving: Leave early enough to locate an above ground Green P spot or slightly removed side streets (note the parking times) for a faster exit strategy post-parade.

Someone in your circle should arrive early enough (experienced attendees will tell you at least an hour and a half in advance, depending on where your selected area is) to stake out a spot. Good To Know: This is when your spouse, or the friend you once loaned your minivan to, comes in especially handy.

If you're running late, usually the easiest part of the route to grab last-minute curbside seating is around St. Lawrence Market, but expect float delays as this is near the parade's end.

Everest climbers have sherpas, kids at the parade have parents. Schlep along these essential extras (think beyond the diaper bag, wallet and warm clothing) so everyone stays on an even keel—especially you. Thermos(es) of hot chocolate or soup, plentiful snacks for the inevitable hunger pains, water, blankets/sleeping bags to sit on or snuggle under, a camera and extra gloves.

For kids who are known to have to go every time you are on the go, your parade spot should be all about location, location, location (meaning near a good washroom). Good To Know: There are over 20 retail food chains (like Tim Hortons and McDonald's) along the route which can usually offer an emergency pit stop.

Next to 'Are we there yet?', 'When is it going to start?' tops our list of questions we could do without. Forever. But being prepared with time wasters can cut down on pre-parade whining. Think sidewalk chalk, stickers, small toys or crayons and a colouring book. Good To Know: You can print out the official, circa 1952-themed Santa Claus Parade Colouring Book to bring along.

A parade is not the ideal time for your tiny explorers, or their older counterparts, to seek greener pastures. Take a moment with kids who can comprehend the notion of a ‘meeting point' and make an agreement of where to go and what to do—and not to do—if some of you get separated.

No, not on Facebook; we're referring to the good old-fashioned kind. Have the kids write a letter to Santa (another good time waster), pop it in an envelope and be sure to address it to: Santa Claus, North Pole, H0H 0H0. Elves will walk along the parade route taking letters back to the big guy. Include a return address and Santa will write back. Good to Know: If you miss the elves, have the kids put their letter into any Canada Post mailbox on the way home.

There's nothing like the real thing, but if all else fails (or nap time wins out) you can see the entire parade on the screen back at home on CTV.ca. And since Santa clearly loves a good parade (and shopping mall?) you can find him at several other venues later on in the season.