It is South Canterbury’s spontaneous, humorous version of the traditional Santa parade, aiming to provide a Christmas experience for the children and a good laugh for the adults lining the parade route.
Now in its sixth decade, this year’s parade starts at 7pm tomorrow.
Its genesis was a small group of locals discussing the fact there was nothing for children in Pleasant Point at Christmas time, so they emptied the shelves at the local sweet shop and applied for permission to close the road, and the parade went ahead.
The spontaneous approach has continued over the years, featuring politically motivated floats stemming from some lighthearted rivalry between the outlying districts — such as Totara Valley, Taiko, Sutherlands, Raincliff and Waitohi — and providing an annual snapshot of important local and world events.
While the "district floats" have become Pleasant Point’s point of difference, the committee’s main aim is to provide a free family night out, discouraging any fundraising or commercialism, and providing a smokefree event.
The South Canterbury Highland Pipe Band will lead the parade, and Pleasant Point’s volunteer fire brigade and police will be participating.
Businesses and groups including Scouts, riders from the Central South Island Charity Bike Ride, kindergartens and churches often take part.
Sometimes there will be milk tankers, the occasional traction engine, and an assortment of vintage cars.
Floats assemble in Matai St and into Kumara Tce, and the parade route is along Te Ngawai Rd, State Highway8, Munro St and Harris St to the pool.
People keen to take part in the parade can prepare their float with a Christmas theme and simply turn up on the night — there is no need to make a booking in advance.
