2026 dates not confirmed yet. Organizers have not announced a 2026 downtown Nanaimo Santa Claus Parade yet. We’ll update this page as soon as the 2026 details are announced.
Downtown Nanaimo has a long tradition of welcoming Santa with an evening parade of floats and lights, organized with the Nanaimo Lions Club and the Downtown Nanaimo Business Improvement Association. In some years Santa has arrived by Harbour Air floatplane before joining the parade.
Nanaimo Santa Parade: Quick Facts
| 2026 date | Not confirmed yet. Past parades have been held on a Saturday in late November or early December |
| Usual time | Evening, around 5:00 PM |
| Usual route | Victoria Crescent, Commercial Street, Church Street and Front Street, downtown Nanaimo |
| Cost | Free |
| Where to check | Tourism Nanaimo events calendar |
The Route
Recent parades have started near Victoria Road and Farquhar Street, travelled along Victoria Crescent, crossed to Commercial Street and Church Street, and ended on Front Street near the waterfront.
Tips
- Don’t park along the parade route in the late afternoon. Cars have been towed in past years.
- Arrive early for a good view of Santa, who comes at the very end.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Nanaimo Santa Claus Parade in 2026?
The 2026 date has not been announced yet. Check Tourism Nanaimo’s events calendar for updates.
Where does the parade go?
Usually along Victoria Crescent, Commercial Street and Front Street in downtown Nanaimo.
Related: Christmas in Nanaimo 2026, Nanaimo Christmas Village.
Part of: Victoria Christmas Guide 2026 › Christmas on Vancouver Island 2026
