After a banner year of serving 284 guests to a Christmas feast, Santa’s little helpers are back in action on Christmas Day continuing a valley tradition.
Santa’s Christmas Dinner is back for another season. Hosted since 1983, it has gone from simply being a dinner among friends when there was no other venue to becoming many family’s Christmas celebration. At its heart lies the belief that no one needs to be alone on Christmas.
“My girls and I had a blast hosting the dinner last year,” said Mike Yavis, whose restaurant is hosting again this year. “It was so great to see the restaurant packed with customers and friends who chose to spend Christmas with us. It’s a highlight of our Christmas”.
The door is wide open to those who don’t have plans, maybe those who are not able to travel to be with family, maybe those who don’t want to make a huge dinner, or those who don’t have the means. Many others have made it their own Christmas tradition.
Volunteers will also bring meals to those who are not able to leave their homes to attend. They also have a shuttle for those in need of transportation.
A core of volunteers has assembled to plan this year’s dinner, but there is always room for more help. Whether it be serving, cooking or entertaining, all are welcome.
The dinner goes from noon to 3 p.m. on Christmas Day. While the event has been held at a number of venues, last year Yavis Family Restaurant came forward to share in the Christmas spirit, and this year they are hosting it again.
“We’re putting the final touches on the preparations for this year. I want to thank the 40+ volunteers who work each year to make this dinner a success,” said Amy Yavis.
For more information on the event, to volunteer, or arrange for a ride or a drop off, contact Century 21 at 403-823-2121 or contact Bob Sheddy at 403-823-2222.
