Local shop owners gathered together on Saturday, December 19 to support a fun and festive event dedicated to raising money for one neighborhood organization.
That afternoon, business-owners Justin and Leigh Brannan invited Ridgeites to join them in some holiday cheer at this year’s Bay Ridge Santa Social event.
The gathering took place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Cebu Bar & Bistro, 8801 Third Avenue, where guests were provided with a classic Cebu-inspired brunch buffet. Meanwhile, the Brannans – owners of The Art Room, 8710 Third Avenue – offered up holiday arts and crafts for the kids.
Guests were also encouraged to bring their cameras for some photos with Santa.
Tickets were $30 for adults and $5 for children. All children received a free gift certificate provided by local book store The BookMark Shoppe, located on 84th Street and Third Avenue.
“Leigh and I really wanted to give back to the neighborhood with a cozy brunch with Santa experience right here in Bay Ridge,” said Brannan, who is also vice president of Bay Ridge Cares—a not-for-profit organization constantly looking for ways to help those in need. “No need to schlep into Manhattan and wait on line at Macy’s for six hours.”
All of the afternoon’s proceeds, Brannan said, will go toward benefitting Bay Ridge Cares’ efforts.
“The holidays here are all about keeping it local and enjoying the small town feel we’re lucky to have seven miles from the center of the world in Manhattan,” said Brannan, adding that Bay Ridge Cares strives to create the sense of a “small town in the big city.”
As for the turnout, Brannan was pleased.
“The event was packed,” he said. “Next year I think we’ll need to rent out the Barclays Center.”
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