The idea of coming together with friends and family during the holiday season creates a warm feeling inside most of us. Gathering to share a coffee, a cup of tea and a warm laugh is what this time of year is all about. The Village of Saanichton takes the gathering experience and goes one step further, by bringing the entire community together with their annual “Community Christmas Event.” This year it takes place on Saturday, December 14th from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The Saanichton Village slows down just a little on 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 through the Village, take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage, decorate a gingerbread man, listen to some live local music, but most of all …become more familiar with the people in the community.
This will be the ninth annual event, with all proceeds going to the Sidney Lions Food Bank, a worthy cause all year round. There are over 12 trees on the Christmas Tree Trail, which starts at 9:30 a.m. and is a wonderful tradition, with most of the businesses in the local area putting up a splendid tree for kids (big and small) to enjoy. Families are given a map to follow and the children get a stamp 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 Saanichton’s businesses community. For the second year, there will be a “Christmas Craft Fair & Market” in the parking lot behind Fresh Cup Café, which is 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 enjoy higher 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, 1931 Mt. Newton X Road, to drop off your donation to the food bank, get a free coffee and Christmas cookie, Tree Trail Map, and spend some quality family with a casual stroll, or ride around the village with the horses …because everyone LOVES horses and Santa!
