by A figure skater in Rochester asks how long the Toronto Santa parade is, what is special about Lake Ontario, and who Susan B. Anthony was
A Letter to Santa from Rochester, New York
Dear Santa,
Hi Santa! My name is Maeve and I am 8 years old. I live in Rochester, New York, a snowy city by a great lake with waterfalls right in town. I love figure skating and reading mysteries. My question is: how long is the Santa Claus parade in Toronto? My geography question is: what is special about Lake Ontario? And my social studies question is: who was Susan B. Anthony? Thanks, Santa!
Love, Maeve (age 8)
Santa’s Reply
Ho ho ho, hello Maeve! A figure skater who loves mysteries asks a fine question. The famous Toronto Santa Claus Parade, up in Canada not far from your Rochester, follows a long route of several kilometers through the city and lasts roughly two hours or more. It is one of the largest and oldest Santa parades in the entire world, packed with enormous floats, marching bands, costumed characters, and plenty of cheer. By the time I roll past on the final float, the whole city is buzzing with holiday spirit.
Your geography question: Lake Ontario
Lake Ontario, which your own Rochester sits beside, is one of the five Great Lakes, and it is special as the most eastern of them all. It is also the smallest in surface area, yet it is very deep. Its waters eventually flow out toward the Atlantic Ocean, making it the final lake in the great chain. Read more at National Geographic Kids.
Your social studies question: Susan B. Anthony
Susan B. Anthony was a brave leader who lived in your own Rochester and worked tirelessly for women’s right to vote. At a time when women were not allowed to cast a ballot, she spoke out, organized, and never gave up. Thanks to her and others like her, women eventually won the right to vote. She is honored as an American hero. Explore more at Britannica Kids.
Skate a graceful spin for me, Maeve. Yours warmly from the North Pole, Santa Claus.
