The organization behind the Manitoba Hydro Santa Parade is warning the public about fraudulent emails circulating that falsely claim to be from the parade, inviting businesses to apply as vendors for the 2026 event.
The fake emails advertise vendor booth opportunities, list booth prices, and ask businesses to submit an application with the promise of an invoice after approval.
Parade organizers say they do not currently have a vendor program and are not accepting vendor applications or collecting any fees. Any email requesting payment or vendor applications is fraudulent.
Anyone who receives such an email is asked not to respond, send payment or personal information, or click any links or attachments, and to forward the email to organizers so they can document the incident.
“Our official communications are sent only through our authorized email addresses and official channels,” said Monica Derksen, parade director, in a release. “If you are ever unsure whether a message is legitimate, please contact us directly before taking any action.”
Organizers are asking the public to help spread the word to protect the community from fraudulent activity.
