The idea of coming together with friends and family during the holiday season to share a fresh cup of coffee, tea or hot chocolate creates a warm feeling inside us all. The Village of Saanichton takes the festive season gathering experience one step further by bringing the entire community together with their 11th annual “Saanichton Community Christmas Event.” This year it happens on Saturday, December 5th from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The Saanichton Village slows down that day so children can enjoy a pancake breakfast with Santa at St. Mary’s Church starting at 9 a.m. (courtesy of the Central Saanich Lions), have a photo with Santa himself (by donation to the food bank), walk the Tree Trail with the family, take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage, decorate a gingerbread man at the Saanich Pioneer Museum, listen to some live music, and most of all … become more familiar with the people in their community.
This year’s event will have a stronger focus on the Sidney Lions Food Bank drive-in/drop-off being run by the local Scout troop in the village center at Pioneer Square. The food bank was why this event was born and it’s a worthy cause all year round.
The Christmas Tree Trail has over 10 trees on it and starts at 9:30 a.m. Many businesses in the local area put up a splendid tree for the big and small kids to enjoy. Families are given a map to follow, with the kids collecting stamps at each location, and sometimes a little cup of hot chocolate or treat!
The event is presented by The Saanichton Village Association, Seaside Magazine, and the local business community in the Saanichton area. There will be a “Christmas Craft Fair & Market” in the parking lot behind Fresh Cup Café, where Christmas Headquarters is located, at 1931 Mt. Newton X Rd. These local crafters and artisans, bakers and food producers will have seasonal items to buy for those that like high quality, locally-made products.
For many this event has become a cornerstone of their seasonal Christmas traditions, and there are a number of guest appearances with elves, Rudolph, and Santa in attendance. Be sure to visit Christmas Headquarters at Fresh Cup Café and be sure to drop off your donation to the food bank at Pioneer Square, get a free coffee, Christmas cookie, Tree Trail Map, and spend some quality family time … because everyone loves horses and Santa!
