Spin on tradition: Thousands of cars roll through Summerside for Santa-reverse parade

Coun. Barb Ramsay and Angie Arsenault, executive director of Downtown Summerside Inc., supported the Summerside Fire Department with the planning of the reverse parade – a first of its kind. The event took "tremendous work to co-ordinate" thanks to all the volunteers and five neighbouring fire departments. "Robert Gallant, the owner of Michael's Pizzeria, was exceptional at directing the thousands of vehicles," noted fire chief Ron Enman.

Old St. Nick's visit to downtown Summerside looked a little different this year.

Guardians of the Children (GOC) International won 'Best Entry' for the second year running.

The reverse Santa Claus Parade came with static festive floats and more than 4,000 vehicles counted by organizers that crawled along a designated section of Rufus and Water streets to see them on Friday, Nov. 27, from 6 to 8 p.m.

The Summerside band called 30 Russell put on a lively performance for the passing vehicles while wishing everyone a

Summerside fire chief Ron Enman, whose department organized the event, said the parade was not only a way to bring cheer to a "devastating year" but an opportunity to make a difference in the community.

Runners up for their festive float were the Summerside Intermediate OWLS. - Desiree Anstey

"This year has been tough on local businesses and families, financially and emotionally. Last year we donated $1,000 each to the Salvation Army, the Kinsmen Club, and the St. Eleanor's Lions Club food banks," said Enman. "This year, through sponsorship, we donated $3,350 to each organization to help so many families make their Christmas affordable."

Cheryl Hudgin makes final touches to her float that – with Christmas spirit – raises awareness about the environment's importance. - Desiree Anstey

The event included a Toonie Drive at the Credit Union Place, where the parade kicked off, with donations going to Lennon House and the Island Pregnancy Centre Summerside. And float entries could donate to the families of Camden Kingyens and Georgia Arsenault – both dealing with childhood cancer.