Santa Claus Parade organizers have been told that the Vancouver Art Gallery space they traditionally use for children's activities during the event is already being occupied.
Protesters say the Occupy Vancouver tent city where dozens have lived since Oct. 15 isn't going anywhere, and the city has asked that the Dec. 4 parade plans be adjusted accordingly.
But parade producer Robyn Jones-Murrell insists it's no trouble moving the Coast Capital Christmas Square, which features face painting, a letter to Santa station and food bank donation area, to the 600-block of Thurlow Street instead.
"To be honest, we deal with different logistical issues every single year, so this is something we're definitely prepared for," Jones-Murrell said.
"There's still a month to go, so that's lots of time to get all the information to our participants and sponsors and parade-goers."
The parade route is also being altered; instead of running down Georgia Street to Howe Street, the parade will now turn north on Burrard Street to Cordova Street.
Jones-Murrell says the route isn't being altered to avoid a possible disruption by Occupy protesters, but because the Christmas Square is "an integral part" of the parade.
""We put it right in the middle so parents of children who are bored waiting for the parade to start have a place to go," she said.
Organizers admit the route is a little shorter, but say Burrard is also wider than Howe, allowing for a bigger crowd of spectators.
Parade-viewers are asked to bring non-perishable food to donate to the Greater Vancouver Food Bank Society. Most-needed items are high-protein items such as tuna and canned meat, pasta, diapers, canned hardy soups and baby formula.
The parade and its sister "Christmas in July" event have raised more than $96,000 and collected more than 63,000 lbs. of food since 2004.
"As every year, our main focus is bringing out donations for the food bank," Jones-Murrell said. "We'd love it if everyone can bring at least one can or one dollar."
