The Paris Independent
December 2, 2023
12
L O C A L H I S TO RY Reviving the beloved tradition of the Paris Santa Claus Parade
Growing up in this area and moving to Paris as a teen, I had always experienced the joy and excitement of this festive event, unaware of its rich history dating back to the early 20th century. The first recorded mention of Christmas in Paris can be traced back to a newspaper article from December 1929. The town was celebrating its second annual town Christmas Tree, adorned in the town square (this became the cenotaph in 1930). Santa Claus himself would visit the tree, distributing gifts to the children, followed by a free matinee at the nearby Capital Theatre. Little did the residents know that this would mark the beginning of a cherished tradition that would endure for decades.
The Norfolk Paris Santa Claus Parade December 1964 on Mechanic St. photo credit: Henry Poirier
over sponsorship of the parade, and it grew larger and more spectacular with each passing year. The festivities would kick off in the morning at the PERA room located at Penman's #2mill on Willow Street. The parade would then traverse the town, crossing the William Street bridge and making its way through downtown via William Street, Broadway Street, Mechanic Street, Year after year, Santa Claus would Grand River Street, Emily Street, and make his grand entrance into back to Broadway Street before downtown Paris, captivating the finally landing at the Theatre. hearts of both young and old. Whether arriving in a bright red Once Santa Claus arrived at the sleigh, a motorcar, or even a Theatre, over five hundred children helicopter in the 1960s, his arrival eagerly packed into the venue. Each was always met with great child would receive a bag filled with anticipation. Accompanying him rock candy, an orange, and a candy were popular fairytale and nursery cane to take home as a sweet memory rhyme characters, adding an extra of the day. As the children enjoyed an touch of magic to the parade. afternoon filled with cartoons, serials, and a feature movie, parents had the The Penman's Entertainment and opportunity to indulge in some Recreation Association (PERA) took holiday shopping.
Santa Claus didn't stop there; his mission to spread joy extended beyond the theatre. After leaving the packed venue, he would visit the community hall to meet with preschool children and make special visits to sick children at the Willet or at their homes. It is estimated that around 1,200 to 1,300 bags of candy were distributed during the parade each year. In 1957, the Capitol Theatre closed its doors, marking the end of an era. However, Santa Claus found a new destination for his arrival—Christmas Island, also known as Kings Ward Park. This tradition continued until 1966 when Penman's sponsorship ceased, and the parade came to a halt. The absence of the Santa Claus Parade left a void in the hearts of Paris residents, and Christmas in the town would never be the same. Continued on page 13
