The Rockwood Farmers’ Santa Claus Parade of Lights takes place in the community of Rockwood, which is part of the Guelph-Eramosa township. It is located between Guelph and the community of Acton, near the Rockwood Conservation Area.
The inaugural Farmers’ Santa Claus Parade of Lights was organized over two decades ago by local farmers, hence the name of the event. They decorated their farm equipment with Christmas lights and rode through the streets as a holiday gesture of goodwill to their non-farming neighbors. Over the years, this spontaneous and informal event has grown to become Ontario’s most original and spectacular nighttime parade.
The parade always takes place on the second Thursday in December. According to the parade’s legend, this time of year Santa is still busy in his workshop making toys for good children. In Rockwood, however, he already has everything done. That’s why Santa and Mrs. Claus team up with local farmers, who’ve harvested corn and soybeans and are looking for something to do, to organize a spectacular lights parade.
The Rockwood Farmers’ Santa Claus Parade of Lights features about 20 area farms. More than 200 farmers, their families, friends and employees join in the spirit of the season and ride floats decorated with thousands of Christmas lights. The Rockwood Parade is special, because instead of traditional floats, it features decorated and festively lit farm equipment that has been transformed into dazzling floats varying in size and shape. Of course, Santa Claus and Mrs. Clause make an appearance, riding atop a massive combine.
The parade is held strictly for fun, there is no fundraising, advertising, or fees associated with it. Local farmers participate in it to have some fun while simultaneously giving back to their community. The annual event draws more than 10,000 spectators from all over Ontario who have the opportunity to watch a beautiful show of lights and see a wide range of both antique and modern farm equipment.
Photo: Rob
