Niagara Falls is kicking off the holiday season with a weekend of festivities in mid-November, headlined by the annual Santa Claus Parade on Saturday, Nov. 14, and the third annual Deck the Halls Holiday Market the following day.
The 2026 parade steps off at 4 p.m. and will feature festive floats, community groups, costumed characters, marching bands and seasonal performances, closing with an appearance from Santa and Mrs. Claus, according to a City of Niagara Falls news release.
After the parade, the celebration continues at Centennial Square with the Niagara Health Foundation Christmas Tree Lighting, family-friendly entertainment and a meet-and-greet with Santa. Complimentary hot chocolate and cookies will be served, and the festive lights along Queen Street will be switched on.
Letters to Santa and food donations
Canada Post will be collecting letters to Santa along the parade route, while Project SHARE will accept cash and non-perishable food donations from spectators. Full parade details, including the route and parking information, are posted at niagarafalls.ca/santa.
Deck the Halls returns Sunday
The festive weekend wraps up Sunday, Nov. 15, with the third annual Deck the Halls Holiday Market at the Niagara Falls Exchange and the Niagara Falls History Museum, running from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The free, family-friendly event will feature local artisan vendors, holiday crafts, a s'mores station, visits with Santa and seasonal treats. Guests can move between the two venues while shopping for holiday gifts, though some activities and refreshments will be available for purchase.
A full list of vendors and activities is available at nfexchange.ca/about/deck-the-halls.
Who to contact
Residents with questions about the parade can reach Michelle Nicholls, the city's community recreation co-ordinator for special events, at 905-356-7521 ext. 4359 or mnicholls@niagarafalls.ca. Questions about the holiday market can go to Kris Houter, cultural services assistant, at khouter@niagarafalls.ca.
