The Sith Santa

Our Santa Claus parade was held here in November, on a day with light snow starting to fall. It started at City Hall, went west on Laurier, and turned down Bank Street to end at Lansdowne Park. The crowds came out, thicker in some spots than others, but generally well attended as I went along the parade route. I photographed extensively, heading back and forth. This first shot features actors from the National Arts Centre's production of A Christmas Carol.

Horse drawn carriages were a common sight during the parade.

The Ceremonial Guards, who spend the summer on Parliament Hill and at Rideau Hall, took part. 

There were several women in fairy tale guise; they're part of a company that do birthday parties.

This was entirely different- the Capital City Garrison of the 501st Legion took part in the parade as well this year. These are Star Wars fans who definitely go that extra step in costume wearing, with a good Obi-Wan Kenobi, Imperial Troopers, Sand People, and Sith Lords among them. Darth Vader wearing a black Santa hat was a good touch. 

Antique fire trucks and marching bands were part of the parade.

And of course at the end, the Jolly Elf himself, telling all the kids they'd been very good this year. Obviously he must have decided not to single me out as being perpetually on the naughty list.