Port Hope officials are advising residents and visitors to expect significant traffic, parking, and transit changes on Friday, November 28 and Saturday, November 29 as the community hosts two major holiday events.
The Candlelight Walk returns to Walton Street on Friday evening, marking both the conclusion of the Walton Reconstruction Project and the festive start to the holiday season. Road closures begin as early as 1 p.m. on John Street, expanding to Walton Street, Ontario Street, and Queen Street by 3 p.m. An additional closure will take place between 5:50 and 6:30 p.m. to accommodate the Candlelight Walk itself.
The Santa Claus Parade follows the next afternoon at 1 p.m., with road closures beginning at 11:30 a.m. on Bramley Street, Ridout Street, Walton Street, Queen Street, and Augusta Street. Parking restrictions are in effect for both events, and the town advises that vehicles left in restricted zones during posted closure periods will be removed.
Transit will operate extended Friday hours until 9:30 p.m., and beginning at 3 p.m. Friday several stops will be temporarily out of service as Routes A and B divert around downtown closures. During the parade, the Transit Hub will temporarily shift to the neighbouring lot at 74 Queen Street.
The Town encourages drivers to clear the downtown area during closure times to support pedestrian-friendly access and safe event operations for all attendees.
Further information is available at porthope.ca/candlelight-festival and porthopesantaclausparade.ca.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)