Rockwood to welcome 33rd parade Dec. 11

ROCKWOOD  – The 33rd Rockwood Farmers’ Santa Claus Parade of Lights is slated for Dec. 11.

This year’s route will begin on 5th Line (Wellington Road 27) just north of the village limits.

The parade will proceed south along Main Street and then turn west on Alma Street and travel towards Guelph. Finally, the parade will turn north on the 4th Line of Eramosa.

This year’s parade will feature roughly 23 pieces of farm equipment, all decked out for the holiday season.

“We just pick whatever piece of equipment that we choose and put some lights on it and make it look festive,” said Mike Sharman, a parade participant and member of the parade planning committee.

And of course, “Santa will be in attendance; he will be riding on the combine, kind of  pulling up the rear.

“He’s the last [float] and the main event.”

Sharman says while the parade has typically not seen much snow, he believes “It could be a snowy one this year” and urges those attending to “dress warmly.”

Parking is available along Main Street, however, Sharman suggests parking along 4th Line for optimal viewing.

“I’m biased because I live on the 4th Line, so I’ve watched it there my whole life,” said Sharman.

“And because there’s no street lights or anything, I think things look way better here.”