Feast with Kris Kringle

By: Karen Dybis | December 9, 2019
Feast with Kris Kringle at Grosse Pointe War Memorial

Photo Courtesy of the Grosse Pointe War Memorial.

Every kid, whether they are two or 102, starts to feel the holiday spirit when they plan a visit with Santa Claus. If you want a longer visit, you may want to plan on attending one of the many breakfast events with the Jolly Old Elf, who likely will have more time to talk and go over everyone’s list in detail. 

Breakfast with Santa events are plentiful around Metro Detroit, and there are a variety of locations to visit at the same time. The crew can start the day with pancakes, sausage and the like before heading out to see the sights while already on the scene.

Many of these breakfasts are ticketed events, and the fancier ones tend to sell out early. So make sure you get in line, online or in person, right away if you still want to catch Santa while he’s in town and hungry for a bite. Prices can range from $7 per person to as high as $45 and up. Some places, such as The Detroit Zoo, offer special prices for people who have memberships. 

Here are some Breakfast with Santa events around Metro Detroit that the family may enjoy.

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The War Memorial 

This Grosse Pointe Farms event on Sunday is a memorable one because Kris Kringle arrives via helicopter. Kids can line up at the windows overlooking Lake St. Clair to watch Santa land and enjoy the magnificent view. The breakfast is a hearty one and features great desserts as well. Afterward, kids and families line up to take pictures with St. Nick as he reads holiday stories. 

The Detroit Zoo 

Head to the Wildlife Interpretive Gallery at the Zoo for a buffet-style breakfast featuring waffles and more. The butterflies fly about as you enjoy the meal and a visit with Santa. The event also includes a special gift for every child, a unique craft and photo opportunities for the family with Santa. 

City of Ferndale 

Imagine heading out with Santa to visit households around the world. That is the theme behind this special breakfast in the city of Ferndale. Kids and families will enjoy a pancake breakfast with sausage and eggs as well as crafts featuring elements from various countries such as Australia, Romania, Kenya and Japan. Kids can fill out their Santa maps with stickers from each location and receive a goodie at the breakfast’s end. 

Zehnder’s in Frankenmuth 

This is a bit of a further drive, but you can enjoy breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus at one of Michigan’s most interesting tourist sites. The breakfast features fruit, muffins, cinnamon French toast and sausage for a full meal. The kids also will receive a small gift from Santa as part of the breakfast. 

St. Margaret of Scotland Church 

If you’re looking for a religious component of your visit with Santa, this church has you covered. The breakfast features pancakes and more for a low cost as well as free pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Afterward, head over to Whistle Stop Hobby & Toy, a St. Clair Shores institution, which has some of the best selections of educational and unique toys around Metro Detroit.

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