Diplomatic visits are commonplace in Ottawa, but rarely do they draw as big of a crowd as the North Pole’s most famous ambassador did Saturday morning.

More than 100,000 people filled the sidewalks of downtown Ottawa for the 43rd annual Help Santa Toy Parade.

“I’m here with my whole family, my daughter, husband and three grandchildren,” said Debbie Coville.

Local groups and celebrities, including many from CTV Ottawa, served as the warm-up act for the parade’s red-clad star.

Little ones took the occasion to craft their wish lists as Christmas and Santa’s visit approaches.

“Another big teddy bear,” said one child.

“I haven’t seen Santa yet, but I want a (Nintendo) DS,” said nine-year-old Kathleen Mainville.

This was the first time many saw Santa this season, inspiring the first twinges of holiday spirit.

However, Santa had in fact hurried over to the Wellington Street starting point (as only Santa can) from Kanata, where their parade began an hour earlier at 10 a.m.

His Christmas message, delivered before his final appearance of the weekend Sunday evening in Barrhaven?

“Love each other,” Santa said. “Don’t ask for too much and enjoy what you have.”

With a report from CTV Ottawa’s Stefan Keyes