'It really starts off the season': Sun shines for Downtown St. John's Santa parade

After St. John's experienced its rainiest November ever, the Santa Claus parade finally went ahead Sunday afternoon. 

There was some drizzle in the morning, but bright sun emerged just in time for the floats to wind their way through the downtown.  

The parade was supposed to take place last weekend, but was postponed because of the weather. That, and the rainy morning, meant today's event was a bit smaller than hoped for, said Gaylynne Gulliver, the parade's Chief Elf Officer. 

"It's been 39 days and 39 nights of showers, and today was no different," said Gulliver. "Sun's back out again here and everybody's spirits are high." 

Almost 45,000 people gathered in downtown St. John's to watch the annual parade, which is sponsored by Newfoundland Power, and which collects food donations for the Community Food Sharing Association. 

Gulliver said the association is "the food bank's food bank" and that the goods collected at the parade are shared throughout the province. 

Lining up to watch the parade is a tradition not to be missed for many families. 

"We came with our parents when we were young, and we want to bring our kids, and it really starts off the season," said Jaclyn Whelan. 

Amy Silver said the parade is the best way to get in the Christmas spirit. 

"It's so fun, we love it down here, all the floats and everything, they're really cool," said Silver. "People put a lot of work into doing it ... it makes the Christmas season start off with a bang."

As for the parade attractions, kids loved seeing the various characters including cheerleaders, motorcycles, dogs and Santa Claus himself. 

Santa said despite the rain, the trip to St. John's went well.

"It was a little foggy last night, but Rudolph shined away all the way through," said Santa. "We had a perfect landing at the St. John's airport." 

While Santa was the main event for many, the famous Maple Leaf Big Stick also made an appearance.