Bundle up in your winter gear before you head to downtown Mission tonight, as there may be a hint of snow for the community's 29th annual Candlelight Parade.

The parade starts at 7:30 p.m. but onlookers are encouraged to arrive early to get a good viewing spot, and enjoy a bit of dinner beforehand.

Hosted by the Mission Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Candlelight Parade is one of the largest nighttime parades in the province, and features about 80 floats this year.

Depending on the weather, the event draws up to 13,000 viewers and it's become the start of the Christmas season for many in the community, said Allison Jack, the chamber's tourism manager.

Youngsters should make sure they bring their letters for Santa, as Canada Post elves will be collecting missives for the big guy before his return to the North Pole, just before his float appears at the end of the parade.

Among the stars featured (besides Santa Claus) will be Olympic swimming champion Brent Hayden - look for him on Mission's parks and recreation float.

Remember to wave to the board members of the 2014 B.C. Winter Games, which Mission will be hosting in just over a year.

Other highlights will be the Fraser Valley Mountain Bike Association - they'll be the ones on bikes with shovels, chainsaws and lights - and the 521 Aurora Air Cadets marching band.

The Golden Ears Vintage Car Club will return, as will many local businesses and non-profit groups who take the time to participate in this feel-good community spectacle.

Bring chairs or cushions if needed, and dress warmly.

Remember to bring a donation of non-perishable food items for the Mission Christmas Bureau. Volunteers will be collecting items up and down the parade route before the festivities begin. The parade route is from Horne Street to the Cedar Valley Connector along Highway 7 or First Avenue and will be closed to vehicles at 6 p.m. Friday. If you drive to the event, parking is also available on the south side of the tracks in the West Coast Express lot.

See more details at missionchamber.bc.ca.

- Santa Claus will also be at Fraser River Heritage Park on Dec. 9 from 2 - 4 p.m. for his annual Santa in the Park visit.