Christmas is beginning to take shape along Cobourg’s waterfront as the town’s largest Christmas tree was put into place on Thursday, November 5, 2026.
The approximately 10-metre (33-foot) blue spruce was transported to the waterfront from the corner of Mathew and Burke Streets, where it was carefully positioned just south of the Esplanade.
For the past decade, Rob Tinney of Northumberland Crane and Tree Services Inc. and Ryan Loughlin of Ironwood Tree and Landscape Services have generously donated their time and equipment to bring Cobourg its annual Christmas tree.
With a Cobourg Police escort accompanying the small convoy of vehicles, the tree made its way through town before arriving at the waterfront.
Parks Department staff also assisted with the transportation and placement of the tree.
Once in position, cement was poured into the hole surrounding the base to help stabilize and secure the tree.
In the coming days, the blue spruce will be decorated with Christmas lights and ornaments, while approximately 100 smaller trees will also be placed throughout the area to help create the holiday atmosphere.
“It’s a great day,” said Jackie Chapman Davis, the Municipality of Cobourg’s Manager of Culture, Events and Tourism.
“Christmas Magic is right around the corner, although you wouldn’t feel it in this beautiful weather down here on the waterfront.”
Chapman Davis said the tree is given a second purpose after being removed from its original location.
“We would never cut a tree down to cut a tree. So it’s a tree that’s coming down,” she explained.
Loughlin works with homeowners throughout Northumberland County and, when a suitable tree is identified, arrangements are made to have it removed closer to the Christmas season.
Rather than simply being disposed of, the tree gets one final opportunity to shine as part of Cobourg’s Christmas celebrations.
“And then in the spring it will get mulched up and used in parks across the Town of Cobourg,” Chapman Davis said.
The arrival of the Christmas tree also signals that preparations are well underway for the annual Christmas Magic celebration, taking place Friday, November 20.
Downtown Cobourg businesses will be participating, along with the return of the Christmas market.
Rotary Harbourfront Park, Victoria Hall and Victoria Park will all be illuminated as part of the festivities, with numerous activities planned along King Street.
Chapman Davis is encouraging residents and visitors to come downtown, support local businesses and take part in the festivities.
The official lighting ceremony is scheduled for approximately 6:15 to 6:30 p.m. at Rotary Harbourfront Park.
Horse and wagon rides, activities and a few surprises are also planned.
With the largest Christmas tree now standing along the waterfront, Cobourg is getting ready to welcome the holiday season once again.
Cobourg Santa Claus Parade is Coming to Town November 28
The Town of Cobourg invites the community to celebrate the festive spirit at the annual Cobourg Santa Claus Parade on Saturday, November 28, 2026, at 6 p.m.
This year’s theme is A Vintage Christmas, celebrates the timeless charm, nostalgic traditions, and storybook wonder of the holiday season. From festive floats and twinkling lights to cheerful music and the excitement of Santa’s grand arrival, the parade is a picture-perfect way to kick off the season. Expect to see local schools, community groups, and organizations showcasing their creativity through themed floats, performances and more.
The parade route will travel along King Street, beginning at the Cobourg Public Library and moving east through downtown, ending at D’Arcy Street.
The Town of Cobourg’s Santa Claus Parade is made possible thanks to the support of local community sponsors. This year’s sponsors include:
• Holly Jolly Sponsors: Arthur’s Pub and Moffatt Bros Roofing Ltd.
• Santa’s Sleigh Sponsor: Blake Construction Services
• Light Up Sponsor: Lions Club of Cobourg
• Community Partners: Cobourg Police Service, Northumberland Fare Share Food Bank, and The Town of Cobourg
Participate in the Parade
Experience Cobourg is accepting registrations from community organizations, groups and businesses that want to take part in the parade.
Visit experiencecobourg.ca/santaclausparade for the application form. Entries must be submitted by Thursday, November 26, 2026.
Pre-Parade Fun Zone
Before the parade starts, visit the Kids’ Zone in front of Victoria Hall (55 King Street West) to make a Christmas craft hosted by the Art Gallery of Northumberland and play in the inflatable fun park.
Food Bank Donations
The Northumberland Fare Share Food Bank will be collecting non-perishable food items and cash donations at the start of the parade. Community members are encouraged to bring a donation and help support local families this holiday season.
Letters to Santa
Santa’s elves from Canada Post will be collecting children’s letters to Santa at the beginning of the parade.
Important Reminders
• Dress Warmly: Parade attendees are reminded to dress warmly
• Wear reflective clothing: Safety First! We encourage all parade-goers, especially children, to wear something reflective to ensure they’re visible at night.
November 28 Road Closure Details
Please be advised of the following road closures on Saturday, November 28, to accommodate parade staging, the parade route and float disembarkation.
Staging Area Closures
• William Street, from University Street to King Street, will be closed from 3:30 p.m. until 7:00 p.m.
• King Street, from William Street to Margaret Street, will be closed from 3:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
• Ontario Street, from University Street to Albert Street, will be closed from 3:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Parade Route Closure
• King Street, from William Street to D’Arcy Street, will be closed 3:30 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.
PLEASE NOTE: Vehicles parked within the parade route closure area must be removed before 3:30 p.m. Vehicles remaining after this time will be towed.
Float Disembarkation Area Closure
• King Street, from D’Arcy Street to Cottesmore Avenue will be closed from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. to allow for the safe disembarkation of parade participants and floats.
Stay up to date on events happening in Cobourg by visiting ExperienceCobourg.ca and following the Town of Cobourg and Experience Cobourg on social media.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
