Port Coquitlam will bring back its Parade of Lights on Dec. 6 at 5 p.m., expanding the annual illuminated procession through the city’s downtown, according to a press release.
The parade is the first of its kind in the Tri-Cities and will feature decorated City vehicles, community organizations, local businesses, and walking groups. Santa Claus will appear during the procession. The parade begins at the Port Coquitlam Community Centre (PCCC) at 5 p.m. The City is still accepting parade entries until Nov. 26. Applications can be submitted online here.
Pre-parade activities in downtown Port Coquitlam
From 1 to 5 p.m., families can take part in free, sponsor-supported activities at the Livy & Porthaven Presentation Centre at 2630 Shaughnessy Street and at Leigh Square. According to the City, these activities are supported by NorthStar Development and include:
- Complimentary hot cocoa
- Photos with Santa
- A walk-in snow globe
- An inflatable Santa sleigh photo area
- Winter-themed games
- The NorthStar Express mini holiday train is travelling between Leigh Square and Veterans Park
Councillor Paige Petriw, the City’s event designate, said the parade has quickly become a cornerstone of the City’s Winter in the City program. She said community partnerships and strong local participation help make the event special for all ages.
Skating and family programs at PCCC
The PCCC will host additional activities before and after the parade. Pre-registration opens two days in advance at 8 a.m. for residents and 10 a.m. for non-residents. Day-of registration will be available if space permits.
Activities include:
- Family Play & Skate from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.
- Free Public Skate from 6 to 7 p.m.
- Complimentary hot chocolate, holiday treats, arts and crafts, and a family movie in Mabbett Hall from 5 to 7 p.m.
Registration is available online or by phone.
Parade route
The parade will begin at PCCC and travel:
- West on Kelly Avenue
- North on Shaughnessy Street
- East on McAllister Avenue
- South on Mary Hill Road
- Returning to Kelly Avenue
A full route map is posted online.
Road closures and detours
Road closures will be in place from 4 to 7 p.m. along:
- Shaughnessy Street from Kelly Avenue to McAllister Avenue
- Leigh Square Place east of Shaughnessy Street
- Donald Street from Wilson Avenue to McAllister Avenue
- Whyte Avenue at Shaughnessy Street
- McAllister Avenue from Shaughnessy Street to Mary Hill Road (both east and west sections)
- Mary Hill Road from McAllister Avenue to Kelly Avenue
- Wilson Avenue between Shaughnessy Street and Mary Hill Road
- The PCCC parkade entrance off Kelly Avenue (access open via Kingsway Avenue)
Detours will be available along Wilson Avenue, Mary Hill Road, Maple Street, Kingsway Avenue, and through the Shaughnessy underpass at Elgin Avenue. Local access to Marpole Avenue, Whyte Avenue, McAllister Avenue, and Elgin Avenue will be available via Maple Street.
The City encourages attendees to plan ahead and use transit, walk, or cycle. Free parking will be available at PCCC, Gates Park, Legion Branch #133, and on Kingsway Avenue near Mary Hill Road.
