Thousands of people packed Memorial Peace Park before lining the streets of downtown Maple Ridge for the 22nd annual Christmas in the Park and Santa Claus parade.
Beginning at 4 p.m. families lined up to have their photos taken with Santa Claus, who was in the Maple Ridge Leisure Centre’s Alder Room, and also with the Grinch, who was located in the park.
Jacob Dryden and his band Quickness performed live getting festival goers in the holiday spirit.
The 1st Haney Scout Group kept festival goers warm as they handed out free hot chocolate and apple cider.
Children got to try their hand at cookie decorating and for those with the entrepreneurial spirit, they had a chance to pitch their business ideas for UPlan’s Youth Tank, based on the popular television show “Shark Tank”, and have a chance at getting their venture funded.
The Downtown Maple Ridge Business Improvement Association Christmas market, was packed with shoppers who were looking for handcrafted and unique presents for the Christmas wish list.
Children were also able to drop off their letters to Santa.
The annual lighting of the Christmas tree took place in the southwest side of the park with a countdown by local dignitaries, and the parade kicked off at 6 p.m.
There were 40 parade entries this year including entries from: the Royal Canadian Legion’s Branch 88, Maple Ridge Fire & Rescue, Ridge Meadows RCMP, scout groups, local businesses, dance groups, and sports teams.
Both Santa and Mrs. Claus made an appearance this year, as they arrived by horse and carriage.
• Check out mapleridgenews.com for more photos and video on Monday, Dec. 8