SAANICHTON — 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 everyone.
The Village of Saanichton takes the gathering experience one step further, bringing the entire community together with their annual Community Christmas event. This year the event is Sat. Dec. 6 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The Saanichton Village slows down 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, take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage, decorate a gingerbread man at the Saanich Pioneer Museum and listen to some live local music. But most of all visitors can become more familiar with the community.
This will be the 10th annual event, with all proceeds going to the Sidney Lions Food Bank, a worthy cause all year ‘round.
There are more than 12 trees on the Christmas Tree Trail, starting at 9:30 a.m. and it is a wonderful tradition, with most of the businesses in the local area putting 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 hosted by the Saanichton Village Association and the local businesses community. For the third year, there will be a Christmas Winter Market in the parking lot behind Fresh Cup Roastery Café. Local crafters and artisans, bakers and food producers will have seasonal items on offer. Christmas Headquarters is located at 1931 Mt. Newton X Rd.
For many, this event has become a cornerstone of their seasonal Christmas tradition, and there will be guest appearances by elves, Rudolph and Santa.
Be sure to bring your family to this free Christmas event and drop-off your donation to the Sidney Lions Food Bank, get a free coffee, Christmas cookie, Tree Trail Map and spend some quality family time.
— Submitted by Jim Townley/Saanichton Village Association
