Santa’s arrival highlights weekend winter festival in Brampton

Officially, winter has not yet arrived. But tell that to Santa Claus.

St. Nick is not going to let the calendar get in his way as he plans a visit to Brampton this weekend.

It all starts with the Winter Lights Festival that kicks off tonight (Nov. 15) with the tree lighting and the Miracle on Main Street.

At 6:45 p.m. in Ken Whillans Square, the official lighting of the city Christmas tree will take place. More than 10,000 lights will be used to light the 60-foot tree that will be on display throughout the holiday season.

Also, from 6 to 10 p.m., along Main Street, Wellington Street, Gage Park and the City Hall Atrium, participants can enjoy carolers, amusement rides, light displays and shop from vendors.

Admission is free for Friday’s events with the donation of a new unwrapped toy in support of local Brampton organizations, in partnership with the Tiger Jeet Singh Foundation.

Then, on Saturday, Nov. 16 the Brampton Winter Artist Market hosted by the Brampton Arts Organization will take place.

From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Springdale Branch of the Brampton Library, one-of-a-kind works from Brampton artists will be available for sale. There will also be live music and family activities.

Finally, at 5 p.m., the big man arrives.

Yes, the Santa Claus Parade will take place on Bramalea Road beginning at Central Park Drive.

Throughout the weekend parking is available downtown Brampton at the following locations:

• City Hall Garage: 2 Wellington Street West (entrance at George Street South)
• West Tower Garage: 41 George Street South
• Market Square Garage: Theatre Lane & Union Street
• Nelson Square Garage: 2 Diplock Lane
• George Street North Surface Parking Lot: Northeast corner of George Street North and Diplock Lane (next to Nelson Square Garage)
• John Street Garage