The 43^rd Annual Santa Claus Parade took place in Markham on November 26 at 11 a.m. Enthusiastic onlookers lined the streets and encouraged the Tian Guo Marching Band with their applause and shouts of “Merry Christmas” along the parade route.

Mike, a coordinator of the Markham parade, said that 92 groups were participating, and about 20 of them were marching bands. “Tian Guo Marching Band is one of the best,” he praised, “It has a production of over 100 band members. People like it a lot, and we invite the band every year.” George, another organizer, thanked practitioners for bringing “happiness” and “warmth” during the holiday season.

About one third of Markham residents have Chinese heritage, and many of them applauded the practitioners’ performance. Mr. and Ms. Wang, who emigrated from Beijing several years ago, watch the band every year. Ms. Wang said, “They [the band members] have excellent music and costumes, and they are the best organized. I am really proud of them.”