Santa Claus is coming to town.
The Barrie Chamber of Commerce presents the 76th edition of the Santa Claus Parade, and this year's theme is "Toyland."
The parade, on Saturday, November 15, begins at 5 p.m., and public viewing starts on Lakeshore Drive north of the Tiffin Boat launch.
"Lakeshore Drive, Simcoe Street, and Dunlop Street through downtown Barrie will experience road closures and restricted crossings throughout the day for the safety of parade participants and attendees," the chamber said in a social media post.
If you live within the red-shaded area shown on the map, you are asked to move your vehicle outside the parade zone before 3:30 p.m. on Saturday to avoid being blocked in once setup begins.
"Cross-streets will remain open until approximately 4 p.m., after which only limited access points-such as Simcoe and Toronto Street-will remain available for controlled movement," the chamber said.
To avoid traffic, a free Barrie Transit shuttle is available, provided by the Barrie Chamber of Commerce.
Following the parade, there will be the Noella Tree Lighting Celebration and fireworks, as well as the Rotary Club of Barrie's Festival of Trees, and Santa's fireside gathering at Centennial Park.
What's happening on Saturday, November 15, 2025 - Downtown Barrie:
3:00 PM – Festivities Begin at Meridian Place
The celebration starts early with live performances from local talents Burke Erwin, Sammy, and Francesca Panetta, filling the air with holiday tunes and good vibes.
Tip: Arrive early to grab a hot chocolate and explore the downtown lights before the Santa Claus Parade rolls in!
5:00 PM – Santa Claus Parade Arrives
The Barrie Chamber of Commerce Santa Claus Parade winds its way into Downtown Barrie, led by Choir Revolution — bringing joyful sing-alongs and holiday spirit to every corner of the route.
Best viewing spots: Along Dunlop Street and Meridian Place for the big arrival of Santa!
All Afternoon – Holiday Fun for the Whole Family
- Free Hot Chocolate! Thanks to local Tim Hortons franchise owners, visitors can warm up with a complimentary cup of hot chocolate by donating a non-perishable food item to the Barrie Food Bank or a toy to the Rock 95/KoolFM Toy Drive.
- Kids' Inflatables: Also sponsored by Tim Hortons, these family favourites will keep the little ones entertained all afternoon.
- Kids' Warming Tent: Hosted by the Kiwanis Club of Barrie, families can enjoy hands-on art activities led by local artists, make ornaments for the Festive Tree in Meridian Place, and take part in crafts and creative fun all evening long.
Tip: Don't forget to hang your handmade ornament on the tree before it lights up the night!
6:30 PM – Tree Lighting & Fireworks Finale
As Santa helps light the Downtown Barrie Christmas Tree, the night sky will erupt in a spectacular fireworks display over Kempenfelt Bay and Heritage Park.
Best Viewing Spot: Meridian Place — where the lights, music, and community spirit all come together for the perfect holiday moment.
6:45 PM – Headliner: Shake Your Money Maker – The Black Crowes Tribute
Santa Claus parades in our region: https://barrie360.com/santa-claus-simcoe-county/
