Thames Santa Parade
The Thames Santa Parade kicks off Christmas in Thames each December, with community floats heading down Pollen Street. It is presented by the Thames Business Association with support from the Thames Community Board, and Te Kauaeranga Whānau Day follows straight after the parade.
When is the Thames Santa Parade?
The parade is held on a Saturday in early December. In 2025 it ran on Saturday 6 December, with the first float leaving at 11am. The 2026 date will be announced by the Thames Business Association closer to the time; this page will be updated when it is.
Parade route
The parade starts at the corner of Cochrane and Pollen Streets and heads south along Pollen Street, finishing at the Grey Street field entrance of Te Kura o Te Kauaeranga. Pollen Street is the best place to watch, and the town’s cafés are right on the route.
What to expect
- A daytime parade of community floats, schools and local groups down Pollen Street
- Te Kauaeranga Whānau Day straight after the parade
- A free, family-friendly morning in the heart of Thames
- Support from local businesses and the Thames Community Board
What happened to the twilight parade and Santa Dash?
Earlier parades, such as the 2019 event pictured above, were held in the evening as a twilight parade, with a Santa Dash fun run in Santa suits down Pollen Street. The 2025 parade moved to 11am, and its listing did not include a Santa Dash.
Entering a float
Community groups, schools and businesses can enter a float. Registration is handled by the Thames Business Association, which publishes the form before each parade on the Thames Business Association Facebook page.
Parade details from the Coromandel’s CFM event listing for the 2025 parade.
Plan your visit
See all upcoming happenings on our Thames events page, and plan your trip with guides to where to stay, where to eat and drink and the best things to do in Thames.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Thames Santa Parade?
The Thames Santa Parade is held on a Saturday in early December. In 2025 it was on Saturday 6 December, with the first float at 11am. The 2026 date is announced by the Thames Business Association closer to the time.
Where does the Thames Santa Parade go?
The parade starts at the corner of Cochrane and Pollen Streets and heads south along Pollen Street to the Grey Street field entrance of Te Kura o Te Kauaeranga, where Te Kauaeranga Whānau Day follows.
Is there still a Santa Dash in Thames?
Earlier twilight parades, such as the 2019 event, included a Santa Dash fun run down Pollen Street. The 2025 parade listing did not include a Santa Dash.
How do I enter a float in the Thames Santa Parade?
Floats are registered with the Thames Business Association, which publishes the registration form before each parade. Follow the Thames Business Association on Facebook for the form and closing date.