One of Woodstock’s longest-running traditions will return for another year this May, as the city hosts its annual Victoria Day Parade.
The parade has been held every Victoria Day for 77 years and feature floats from local businesses and organizations, horses, marching band, vintage cars and more. The march will conclude at Southside Park for a day-long festival, including live buskers in a variety of arts such as music and stilt-walking. The park will also contain inflatables and other family-friendly activities. Traditional parades like this often use banner printing and displays to help represent local businesses, fraternal organizations, unions and other groups that contribute to the community.
The holiday weekend will also feature a carnival-style midway from the World’s Finest Shows group, offering amusement rides and carnival game. Visitors can also sample a variety of food, from carnival staples to the best of Oxford County food trucks. The parade is often considered the start of summer, and has included inflatable floats over ten metres high. The event is supported by volunteer efforts with support from the municipal government, and local bands and walking groups can also sign up to be part of the festivities.
The 2025 Woodstock Victoria Day Parade will take place on the morning of May 19, concluding at Southside Park. The Park will also be hosting the midway from May 15 to 19.
