At Verduyn Tarps, community has always been at the heart of who we are. Each year, we are proud to take part in one of Woodstock’s most beloved traditions: the Woodstock Santa Claus Parade. What began only a few years ago as a simple idea for a festive float has grown into a meaningful annual collaboration with the Woodstock Navy Vets—and a powerful opportunity to give back to the community we call home.
A Float Built on Local Pride
Our joint parade float, built in partnership with the Navy Vets players and staff, has quickly become a highlight along the parade route. Featuring our Eagle Tarp System decorated for the holidays, the float showcases not only local creativity and teamwork but also the pride we take in our products. Each year, our employees volunteer their time to help set up, decorate, and ride along the route—turning the parade into an event our whole team looks forward to.
A special thank-you goes out to Dylan Robillard, our Woodstock Shipping & Receiving Supervisor. Dylan led this year’s Christmas Parade Program from start to finish, ensuring every detail came together seamlessly. His leadership, organization, and commitment were essential in getting this year’s parade effort up and running—something our entire team deeply appreciates.
This collaboration has grown into something more than just a parade entry. It has become a symbol of partnership: local business and local sport coming together to celebrate community spirit.
Celebrating the Vets’ Parade Win
This year, we were especially thrilled to celebrate alongside the Woodstock Navy Vets, who earned the title of Best Walking Group at the parade. Their enthusiasm, energy, and connection with the crowd helped bring the entire float experience to life. Seeing the players engage with families and young fans along the route was a true highlight and a proud moment for everyone involved.
As part of their win, the group received a $100 gift card. In the spirit of giving, the Navy Vets reached out to us to share how they planned to use it. As Karen Schneider of the team shared, after discussing the decision with their captain and our Verduyn Tarps site manager, Dan Bethune, the group chose to use the prize to purchase a Food Basics gift card, which will be gifted to the Salvation Army. Their goal: to support the organization’s Christmas hampers and help continue the important work they do for local families during the holiday season.
This thoughtful choice reflects exactly why we value this partnership—shared values, community-first thinking, and a genuine desire to make a difference.
Collecting for a Cause
In recent years, our parade tradition has expanded beyond participation and pageantry. With the help of the Woodstock Navy Vets, our Verduyn Tarps team now collects food donations along the parade route—transforming our Eagle Tarp System trailer into a moving collection point for holiday giving.
The response from the Woodstock community has been nothing short of inspiring. Families, parade-goers, and supporters generously contribute non-perishable items, filling the trailer with food that will support people in need during the holiday season.
Once the parade wraps up, our team has the honour of delivering these donations to the Salvation Army – Woodstock. Their team ensures the contributions reach individuals and families who rely on added support during this time of year.
A Tradition That Keeps Growing
This collaboration is still young, but each year it gains more momentum. We have seen firsthand how a small idea, supported by partners who believe in community, can create meaningful impact. What started as a festive float has evolved into an annual tradition of giving—something we hope will continue for many years to come.
At Verduyn Tarps, we are grateful for the opportunity to support local organizations, uplift our community, and give back in ways that matter. And we are especially proud to stand alongside the Woodstock Navy Vets, whose commitment to our city extends far beyond the hockey rink.
Keeping the Spirit Going
While the parade may only last one evening, the need in our community continues year-round. We encourage everyone who can to support the Salvation Army – Woodstock, whether through food donations, volunteer work, or other forms of giving. Small acts of kindness can make a big difference—especially during the holiday season.
From all of us at Verduyn Tarps, thank you for helping us make this tradition such a success. We are honoured to be part of a community that shows up, gives generously, and celebrates the holidays with heart.
Happy Holidays from our team to yours. 🎄✨
