The warmth of friendship became a belief, and that belief has become a tradition that has spanned 32 years.
That belief is simply that no one should be alone on Christmas.
The Santa Claus Christmas Dinner started simply as a small group of friends coming together to celebrate the holiday. Today there is an open invitation to anyone to come to Yavis Family Restaurant to enjoy turkey with all the fixings on Christmas Day.
Yavis Restaurant will be open from noon to 3 p.m. on Christmas Day for the annual Santa’s Christmas Dinner and the restaurant is excited to continue to be a part of this tradition that shows no sign of slowing down.
This is a great chance for those who do not have family in town, to come and enjoy their neighbours’ company. There are others who do not have the means to make themselves a Christmas dinner.
Whole families in Drumheller now make the annual dinner a part of their Christmas tradition. Whole families have also made volunteering to put on the dinner a tradition as well. This includes cooking turkeys and sides, serving and a few shifts on the dishwashing crew.
Volunteers also offer a shuttle for those in need of transportation. They will also deliver meals to those who are bound to their home.
Last year volunteers served up more than 300 dinners.
To arrange a ride to the dinner or a drop-off or to learn how they can get involved, contact Century 21 at 403-823-2121, or drop by the office in downtown Drumheller before December 23.
