It may not look a lot like Christmas yet, but plans are already underway for a new version of the Santa Claus parade in Belleville.
The COVID-19 pandemic has caused that change.
Chamber of Commerce CEO Jill Raycroft reported to city council by letter Tuesday night that the traditional parade will be replaced with a drive-bay version this year.
Raycroft says the Chamber was informed recently that parades in typical street format are prohibited on the premise they encourage gatherings larger than the 25 permitted under current direction from the province.
She indicated the Chamber consulted with Hastings Prince Edward Public Health, Belleville Police Service and the Quinte Sports and Wellness Centre for the new approach.
The setup at the Sports Centre will have traditional platforms and static displays.
Members of the public will view the displays from their vehicles on a one-way guided procession around the centre.
It will be a drive-thru event with “no pedestrians allowed” on the grounds, to prevent large gatherings or accidents.
Raycroft says Public Health has approved the plan and, in fact, has shared it as an example to other municipalities.
Belleville Police Service is putting together a traffic control plan for that day.
This will include traffic entering and exiting, blocking of other access to the property, and prohibiting foot traffic at the site.
The Chamber is also working on a protocol to allow for drop off of donations to Gleaners Food Bank or the Firefighters Toy Drive from inside the vehicles.
The Drive-By Santa Claus parade at the Sports Centre will run from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., on Sunday, November 22.
