North End Christmas Party reservations filled within hours

This year’s North End Christmas Party already has a full guest list.

The event sees more than 100 families converge on St. John’s Anglican Cathedral for an evening of food, music, and presents from Santa, making sure no family goes without some holiday cheer this season.

The party saw its reservations fill faster than it has in recent years, opening on Sunday at 9 p.m. and then closing just hours later at midnight. 

“I think it’s a sign of the times,” said Kyle Mason, who leads the North End Christmas Party. 

“The times are tough for a lot of people, there’s no doubt about the fact that there are rising costs. Gas, food, everything is more expensive these days than it was in the past.” 

However, while reservations filled quickly, Mason said toy donations for families have slowed this year. 

“Donations are tracking a lot lower than previous years, so it’s a bit concerning that the demand is higher, but the giving is lower,” he said. 

“I suspect in this last week that donations will pick up because I know Winnipeggers and Manitobans always step up. But it is a bit nerve-wracking to be a week out and to see that the giving at this point (is) lower than previous years.” 

The effort is still seeking donations from the public and is currently looking for unwrapped toys valued at roughly $20, with items suitable for everyone from babies to teenagers.

Donations can be dropped off at any Birchwood Automotive Group location, Modern Coffee, Olympia Cycle and Ski, or at the North End Christmas Party website.