The top question on many people’s minds this year is whether the construction zone that George St now is will be able to host an expected 75 large floats.
Dunedin Santa Parade Trust chairman John Marsh said all signs were pointing to a resounding yes.
"We had a walk-through on Wednesday, and although there is still quite a bit to do, the council and Isaac Construction have given us a commitment that they will have it ready for us and will give us enough width to be the first ones to really utilise the new George St layout."
Mr Marsh said there would be a diverse range of floats and performances, from musical groups and marching, to dance and "all sorts of things".
"We usually have probably around 25,000 people in the crowd. It is probably the biggest community event in Dunedin."
Despite rumours, the albatross float would not be making a triumphant return to the parade as its wingspan could not fit down the new street layout.
MetService has been forecasting a few showers in the morning with fresh southwesterlies developing, but the wind is expected to ease and the showers clear in the afternoon.
Dunedin Santa Parade trustee Carmel Spencer said while it was six months’ hard work for the trust, the smiles on the children’s faces made it all worthwhile.
No child would be left out, and Santa was booked in to make an appearance tomorrow morning at the children’s ward at Dunedin Hospital.
A concert will be held in the Octagon at 4pm where Santa will make another appearance.
