There's something special about the holiday season in Yellowknife. Winter darkness comes early, but the streets come alive with colourful lights, festive decorations and families bundled up against the cold. It's a time for familiar traditions, shared memories and the simple joy of coming together with friends, family and neighbours.
On Saturday, November 21, 2026, at 5:00 p.m., the Santa Claus Parade returns to downtown Yellowknife with festive floats and, of course, a special appearance by Santa Claus!
This year, the City of Yellowknife is celebrating that spirit with “Fun Old Fashioned Family Holiday,” the theme of the 2026 Santa Claus Parade. It's an invitation to revisit the holiday traditions we grew up with, share what makes the season special and create new memories for the next generation.
“Traditions don't continue simply because we've always done them. They continue because people find meaning in them and choose to pass them along,” said City Manager, Stephen Van Dine. “The Santa Claus Parade is one of those occasions where every generation has a part to play, from families attending for the first time to those who return year after year. That's how a community builds something that lasts.”
Be Part of the Parade
From classic holiday scenes and movies to family traditions passed down through generations, this year's parade offers plenty of inspiration!
The City invites local businesses, organizations, community groups, families and friends to put their creativity to work and bring their own interpretation of a “Fun Old Fashioned Family Holiday” to life.
Float and vehicle registration is open until November 20, 2026, at yellowknife.ca/paraderegistration.
City Council will award first, second, and third place prizes for the Most Festive floats. Along with the Roland Gosselin Ho Ho Ho Award, honouring the non-profit organization that best captures the holiday spirit.
All winning floats will be posted on the City’s website.
Plan Ahead for Road Closures
The parade will follow the same route as last year, beginning at City Hall and travelling along 53 Street, north on Wıìlıìdeh Avenue and east on 49 Street.
Downtown road closures will begin at 3:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 21. The City's Municipal Enforcement Division and Volunteer Barricades Team will be on site to help direct traffic.
Residents are encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra travel time and follow directions from staff and volunteers.
Come Together This Season
Some traditions are worth keeping, and some memories are still waiting to be made.
Bundle up, gather your family and friends, and make this year's Santa Claus Parade part of your holiday tradition!