A warm savoury pancake breakfast being held at Vista 18 on Saturday comes with all the seasonal toppings -- a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus and charitable proceeds.
The traditional pancake breakfast at Chateau Victoria's Vista 18 is a fundraising event with all proceeds going toward the 51st annual TC Christmas Fund, which raises money each year for people in need during the season.
Food and beverage manager Kevin Neilson said the breakfast, in its third year, is popular with families and is expected to double last year's total of $1,300 raised.
"It's snowballing, every year it gets busier and busier," Neilson said. "It's a big thrill for the kids when Mr. and Mrs. Claus visit."
Chateau Victoria executive chef Garrett Schack is putting his talents to the griddle, whipping up the fluffiest traditional pancakes he can on Dec. 8 from 9 a.m. to noon.
With a Christmas tree in the restaurant, and free apple cider in the lobby, it's the downtown Victoria restaurant's way of allowing patrons to experience "the true Christmas spirit by helping local families."
Staff volunteer to decorate the hotel, which from Vista 18 offers panoramic views of the city, and management and staff usually turn up in costume. "We view the event as the kick-off to the Christmas season," Neilson said. "It's an all-round good time."
The minimum donation for the meal, with beverages and all the fixings, is $10 for adults and $5 for children.
About 200 people attended last year and some patrons donated one "generous" amount on behalf of the entire family, Neilson said.
Reservations are recommended by calling Yvonne at 361-5660.
The TC Christmas Fund raises money every year for people in need at Christmas. Money raised is used to purchase grocery vouchers and Zellers/HBC gift cards for children's presents.
ÎÚÑ»´«Ã½ staff will deliver the vouchers and gift certificates to families.
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How to help
Please make a donation to the TC Christmas Fund:- Mail a cheque to the ÎÚÑ»´«Ã½ Christmas Fund, 2621 Douglas St., Victoria, V8T 4M2.- Use your credit card by phoning 995-4438.
