The long running tradition of the Santa Toy Parade has been cancelled for this year.

The Ottawa Professional Fire Fighters’ Association cited COVID-19 concerns for the cancellation, saying their first duty as firefighters was to the protection of the city and its citizens.

That means that for the first time in over 50 years, Santa won’t be making any early visits to the city for parades.

Usually thousands of people join along the parade route to donate toys for children in need, but this year, organizers will be relying on sales of branded face masks as well as donations.

They will also be matching the first $10,000 raised.

Click here to see the latest on how to donate.