Photo: Saanichton Village Association / Facebook
While the holiday season can be an exciting time of year, it can also be a financially stressful time of year and for those who do not have loved ones nearby it can also be a lonely time. Luckily, there are a series of community events leading up to Christmas that can offer a sense of connection and celebration.
From pancake breakfasts and holiday lunches to a Christmas Day dinner, we have compiled a list of free and low cost community celebrations happening this month.
Saanichton’s community Christmas event this Saturday is geared towards families. The Central Saanich Lions will host a pancake breakfast by donation. Children can decorate cookies at the Pioneer Museum and take photos with Santa at St. Mary’s Church. Participation in activities is by donation to the Saanich Peninsula Lions Food Bank.
Where: Central Saanich Municipal Hall, 1903 Mt. Newton Cross Rd.
When: Dec. 2, 9am-1pm
The Sooke Lions are hosting its annual Christmas breakfast this Saturday at the Sooke Legion. The breakfast will include pancakes, breakfast sausages, strawberries with whipped cream, coffee, orange juice, and candy canes. The breakfast is free, though the Sooke Lions will be accepting donations for the Sooke Christmas Bureau.
Where: Sooke Legion, 6726 Eustace Rd.
When: Dec. 2, 9-11am
Enjoy a pancake breakfast at the Burnside Gorge Community Centre this Saturday. The event will also include photos with Santa, face painting, and crafts. Admission is $3 per person, or $7 per family.
Where: Burnside Gorge Community Centre, 471 Cecelia Rd.
When: Dec. 2, 9-11am
Chow down on a traditional turkey dinner at Esquimalt Recreation Centre on Dec. 8. Lunch is $20 per person and due to limited seating, pre-registration is required. Registration closes on Dec. 7 at 2pm.
Where: Esquimalt Recreation Centre, 527 Fraser St.
When: Dec. 8, noon-1:30pm
This annual community Christmas dinner at Oaklands Community Centre on Dec. 10 will serve up traditional turkey for those 55 years of age and older. Tickets are $12 per person and due to limited seating attendees are encouraged to register early.
Where: Oaklands Community Centre, 2827 Belmont Ave. #1
When: Dec. 10, 6-9pm
Fernwood’s annual community holiday meal at the Fernwood Community Centre is on Dec. 11. Both vegetarian and vegan options will be available for the meal, which will be followed by children’s activities, live music, and dancing. Advance registration required. Tickets are $6.47 for adults and $3.36 for children.
Where: Fernwood Community Centre, 1240 Gladstone Ave.
When: Dec. 11, 5:30-8:30pm
This family friendly community celebration at James Bay Community Centre will take place on Dec. 13. Sip on hot chocolate and chow down on cookies while listening to live music. There will also be craft making for children and door prizes. Tickets are $8 per family and sales begin Dec. 4.
Where: James Bay Community Centre, 140 Oswego St.
When: Dec. 13, 5:30-7:30pm
The Mustard Seed is hosting its annual Christmas luncheon at the Bay Street Armoury on Dec. 16. The community event will include a full Christmas meal and live music. Crafts will be available for children. Free admission.
Where: Bay Street Armoury, 715 Bay St.
When: Dec. 16, noon-3pm
Enjoy a family friendly pancake breakfast at Oaklands Community Centre on Dec. 16. The event will include festive crafts, live entertainment, and the opportunity to meet Santa. Tickets are $12 per person and registration is required.
Where: Oaklands Community Centre, 2827 Belmont Ave. #1
When: Dec. 16, 9am-noon
Gordy Dodd is hosting his annual Christmas dinner for those in need at Our Place Society on Dec. 21. The dinner will include turkey, potatoes, and vegetables. Pumpkin pie will be served for dessert alongside coffee and tea.
Where: Our Place Society, 919 Pandora St.
When: Dec. 21, doors at 5pm
For those unable to celebrate Christmas with loved ones, a community Christmas dinner will be served at the Mary Winspear Centre in Sidney on Christmas Day. Entry is by donation and reservations are available until Dec. 20.
Where: Mary Winspear Centre, 2243 Beacon Ave., Sidney
When: Dec. 25, 11am
