Malcolm Gorrill
Northern News Services

Inuvik (Nov 23/01) - Little boys and girls of Inuvik, you better not pout, you better not cry, keep reading on and you'll find out why.

A Santa Claus Parade takes place Dec. 8. What's more, "reliable sources" confirm that Santa himself will drop by for the event.

A Santa Claus Parade will take place in Inuvik on Dec. 8. Among those who can't wait are Winter Ross, left, and River Ross, along with their friend, Kathleen McDonald. - Malcolm Gorrill/NNSL photo

Theresa Ross, director of recreation services for the town, said it's the first such parade here, at least in recent memory.

"It's always been something that I've been trying to do," Ross said last Saturday.

The parade begins around noon at the Midnight Sun Recreation Complex. Participants will go down Bompas Street to Mackenzie Road, and then go along until they reach Ingamo Hall. Hot chocolate and snacks will be available there.

"Everyone's very excited. It's a cool thing. We're just hoping to get lots of participants, obviously, and want to get non-profit groups and businesses involved," Ross said.

"There'll be prizes for each of the categories, and the more the merrier," she explained.

"It'll be kind of dark too, so we hope people put lights on their floats and stuff, 'cause that'll really brighten things up."

Ross said that treats for the kids will be given out along the route.

The same day as the parade, starting around 3 p.m., youngsters are invited to go to the Inuvik Centennial Library and write letters to Santa. Adults are encouraged to volunteer to help them.

The parade is actually the kick off for Ingamo Hall's 12 Days of Christmas. The centre has scheduled a slew of events, including a sing along which will start there around 2 p.m. on Dec. 9.

A food drive takes place Dec. 12. Susan Ross, youth wellness project officer, explained that boxes of food will be decorated and handed out to homeless people within the community.

A craft and bake sale takes place at Ingamo Hall on Dec. 15 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Santa will pay another visit, and will pose with children for photos.

An elders' Christmas party takes place around 1:30 p.m. on Dec. 13, and Dec. 17 is elders helpers day.

"The youth will be able to go in and decorate their homes, or (do) any gift wrapping, or help them with their shopping, and stuff like that," Ross explained.

Ingamo Hall has an open house on Dec. 18.