FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 21, 2025
Victoria, B.C. — The 43rd Peninsula Co-op Santa Claus Parade is taking a new route this year, to enhance safety and improve the spectator experience.
This year, the parade will follow a new route to the same festive finish at Centennial Square. It starts at Belleville Street and Government Street, winds its way north along Wharf Street, east on Johnson Street, and finishes at Government Street and Fisgard Street. Bundle up and snag a spot along Government, Wharf or Johnson Streets to catch all the festive floats and merry music.
The producers of the show, the Greater Victoria Festival Society, worked closely with VicPD to ensure this cherished community event was safe, smooth, and magical for everyone.
Members of the Victoria Police Department (VicPD) and Reserve Constables will be on-site to manage traffic and road closures, assist pedestrians and parade-goers at intersections and crosswalks, and respond quickly to any safety concerns.
Please follow all directions from officers and volunteers to ensure a safe and enjoyable event for everyone.
Road Closures – Saturday, November 29 starting at 3:30 p.m. to approximately 7:30 p.m.
- Government Street (from Humboldt Street and Superior Street)
- Menzies Street (from Belleville Street and Superior Street)
- Belleville Street (from Douglas Street and Menzies Street)
- Kingston Street (from Menzies Street and 520 Menzies Street)
Road Closures – Saturday, November 29 starting at 5:00 p.m. to approximately 7:30 p.m.
- Wharf Street (from Government Street to Pandora Avenue)
- Johnson Street (from Wharf Street to Broad Street)
- Government Street (from Fort Street to Chatham Street)
Parking
In addition to the road closures, parking will be restricted near the Legislative Building starting at 1:00 p.m. to allow for event set-up.
There will be no parking along the parade route from 3:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. and along these streets:
- Government Street (from Johnson Street to Pembroke Street)
- Herald Street (from Store Street to Douglas Street)
- Fisgard Street (from Store Street to Douglas Street)
Map of the 43rd Peninsula Co-op Santa Claus Parade.
Plan ahead, expect delays, and consider alternate routes. In previous years, heavy traffic in the downtown core occurred due to thousands of parade participants and spectators. Similar congestion is expected this year.
VicPD is proud to be part of this year’s parade. Come down and see our entry featuring VicPD senior leaders, officers, staff, volunteers, and our Reserve Constables.
We’re excited to support this community tradition, and we’re committed to keeping the holiday spirit safe for everyone!
Temporary CCTV Cameras and RPAS Deployment
The deployment of CCTV cameras and the RPAS is an integral part of VicPD’s efforts to support community safety and is in accordance with B.C. and national privacy legislation. Temporary signs indicating CCTV camera presence will be displayed in event areas to inform the community, and the cameras will be removed once the event has concluded. The RPAS camera does not record by default. If recordings are needed to gather evidence, or capture an incident, the public will be notified, and that data will be stored for 30 days or longer. No information will be collected during the event unless a criminal investigation or public disorder incident occurs. If you have concerns about our temporary camera deployment, please email [email protected].
Event Safety Tips | If You See Something, Say Something!
We want everyone to enjoy a safe and festive evening. We have established policies and procedures to minimize risk to the public during large events and encourage attendees to be vigilant and report anything suspicious.
- Stand out and Stay Safe: Especially as it gets darker, make sure you and your little ones are easily seen! Wear bright, colourful clothing and attach reflective gear like stickers, vests, or bracelets to help everyone stand out. Being visible is a simple way to stay safe in crowds.
- Be Aware: Pay attention to what is happening around you, including the people and activities nearby.
- Trust Your Instincts: If something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't. Do not hesitate to remove yourself from the situation.
- Keep Valuables Secure: Keep your belongings safe and be mindful of pickpockets or theft.
- Supervise Children: Keep a close eye on children in the crowd and establish a meeting point in case you become separated.
- Report Suspicious Activity: If you see something that concerns you – unattended bags, unusual behaviour, or anything that seems out of place – please immediately notify a VicPD Officer or a Reserve Constable. You can contact the E-Comm non-emergency line at 250-995-7654. In an emergency, call 9-1-1.
- Prepare for the Weather: Bring warm clothing and rain gear to stay dry in case of rain.
- Know Your Exits: Be aware of the parade route and identify potential exit points.
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