“Breakfast with Santa” draws big crowd to Legion Branch 157

Giuliana, Luke and Evan D’Amore enjoy a visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus last Sunday morning.

Royal Canadian Legion Fort Malden Br. 157 opened its doors to not just the public last Sunday, but to Santa and Mrs. Claus as well.

The Amherstburg Legion hosted its annual “Breakfast with Santa” event last Sunday morning with a large crowd filling the hall right at 9 a.m. and continuing for much of the morning.

Laura Lucier was one of the Legion members helping to run the event, and she stated people could just walk in without registering.

“This is my third year doing it but they’ve been doing it (at the Legion) for a long time,” said Lucier.

Children and their parents and grandparents could enjoy bacon, scrambled eggs, pancakes, sausages, hash browns and more as part of the morning’s festivities. In addition to visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, there were opportunities for children to colour and there was also face painting thanks to Patty Ciphery and Gracey Foster.

Lucier also pointed out there were gift bags for the children who turned out. Kids also received a scarf when they came in, with the scarves being created by Legion member Deborah “Pinky” Barnett with locally donated yarn.

A group of youth wear scarves that were made for the occasion by Deborah Barnett.

“It’s a way to get people into the holiday spirit,” said Lucier. 

Those in the kitchen helping to prepare the breakfast also got into the spirit.

“We try to dress up in the kitchen with our (Christmas) hats,” she added.

The “Breakfast with Santa” event wasn’t just for Legion members, but the community as a whole, Lucier said.

“I see a lot of new faces,” she said. “I see a lot of children. That’s what it’s all about.”

The Legion was happy with the turnout, particularly since there were other “Breakfast with Santa” events around the region.

“There’s quite a lot of people here,” said Lucier.

“Breakfast with Santa” draws big crowd to Legion Branch 157

By Ron Giofu