Published January 2, 2024

John Griffin, LJI

When the days are short and the nights go on forever, the annual Knowlton Santa Claus parade provides hope of light to come.

The family event returns this year after an irritating hiatus caused by the party-pooping COVID virus, and local Lions Club

organizers are counting on community support and seasonal spirit to ensure a wonderful time is had by all.

“We started talking about this year’s parade in 2022,” said self-effacing Gib Rotherham, who admitted after much prodding that he is club president and therefore in a position to discuss the event.

It is believed this year marks the 61st edition. “We are proud that our little town has held this parade for so long. It began shortly after the Brome Lake branch of the Lions began, around 1960. We thought it would be a good thing for the community. And so we started what has since become a tradition.”

“Bravo to the town for providing the roads and the permits, but this is a Lions members initiative. We are entirely supported by local business, with our firefighters and their decorated trucks

leading the parade route from Windmill Plastics to finish at Knowlton Academy.” There will be horses. And costumes.

“The parade size depends on the number of participants. It usually lasts between one and two hours. One of our members dresses as Scrooge, and Santa, of course, is always the star attraction. It would not be Christmas without him.

“There are also goodies for the kids and a chance for them to chat with Santa. They love it.”

The 61st Knowlton Santa Claus Parade begins at 1 p.m. at Windmill Plastics, rain or shine, sleet, snow or hail, and continues through town to end at Knowlton Academy.

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