South King Fire’s annual Santa Parade and Canned Food Drive returns in December to spread local holiday cheer

South King Fire & Rescue is bringing back its annual Santa Parade and Canned Food Drive in December, inviting residents to join in spreading holiday cheer and supporting local food banks.

This beloved tradition, complete with festive lights, holiday music, and a visit from Santa himself, aims to bring the community together to collect canned food donations for families in need.

Last year’s event was a success, gathering more than 5,000 pounds of food. This year, organizers are hoping to surpass that record to meet the increased demand at local food banks.

“South King Fire began Santa Parades in 2020 as a way to support and connect with our community throughout a difficult time,” organizers said. “Partnering with the local cities to collect canned food and donate to the food banks, we strive to make a difference and bring joy during the most challenging time of the year for many families.”

The parade will take place on six dates in December, starting at 5:30 p.m. each evening. Digital maps detailing Santa’s route through various neighborhoods are available on the South King Fire website, allowing families to plan for the best viewing spots.

Video

Here’s a video from the 2023 parade:

Parade Dates:

December 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, and 17
Start Time: 5:30 p.m. each night

Residents are encouraged to check the route online to see when Santa will be near their neighborhood. South King Fire officials remind attendees to bring canned food donations, helping make the holiday season brighter for families in need.

“We look forward to seeing you!”

Please do not donate expired food items.

*We are unable to make changes to the routes due to strict time frames.*

Parade Schedule 2024

“We will start at point A and end at point B for each route. Some maps might have a set of two, and that is because of the mapping program. We would start at point A and finish at point B, and then if there is a second A right next to point B, we will continue on that route until we get to the second point B. It is still considered one route for that time frame.”

Click on the date, time, location below to view a map of the route. To follow along, visit SKF’s Facebook page for live GPS tracking of the fire truck and where it is located on the route.