FORT RUCKER, Ala. -- Breakfast might truly be the most important meal of the day-- especially for area children Dec. 9 when The Landing welcomes families to enjoy its annual Breakfast with Santa.

The event is scheduled for 9 a.m. to noon at The Landing, and features a wholesome meal and a meet-and-greet session with the big guy from the North Pole, according to Tim Carter, DFMWR food and beverage program manager.

"The Breakfast with Santa event starts up the [holiday season] with great food at an affordable price," Carter said. "[It] brings the family together with other families from the military community."

The breakfast will feature a buffet-style menu with children-friendly favorites, according to Janice Erdlitz, DFMWR marketing director.

"Attendees can expect a variety of brunch favorites, including eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, grits, hash browns, fruit, pastries, juice and coffee," Erdlitz said, adding that foods prepared for the breakfast also take individuals with nut allergies into consideration.

"None of the food will contain nuts and none of the food is made with peanut oil," Carter said. "If there are individuals with special food considerations, we will be happy to point them in the direction of items they can enjoy."

The event provides a home away from home for military families who may be new to the community or unable to be with family during the holidays, Carter said.

"Santa will be there for the children and there will be limited prizes for the children," he added. "All of the children will receive a ticket/coupon from which we will draw for prizes. It is an event where families can meet there new or not-so-new neighbors."

Erdlitz echoed Carter's sentiment.

"If you are new to Fort Rucker, this is a great time to get out and meet your neighbors and share the holiday spirit," she said.

The breakfast buffet costs $12.99 for individuals ages 13 and older, $6.99 for ages 3-12, and children ages 2 and under eat for free. A military family special is available for $32.99, which includes two adults and up to two children ages 12 and under. Space is limited and reservations are highly recommended.

"We know we have a diverse community and we always want to offer something everyone can enjoy," Erdlitz said. "Whether you're civilian or military, you will be able to find something to do with the many fun activities planned for this holiday season. We are very proud to be able to share with our military community the experiences of what all [DFMWR] has to offer with the many programs planned.

"We hope everyone will be able to take in many of our fun holiday events," she added. "It's a wonderful opportunity to show your support for Fort Rucker and [DFMWR] programs. From Breakfast with Santa at The Landing to ringing in the New Year at Rucker Lanes with their upcoming Wild West Countdown to New Year's Eve Party, I think we have something everyone can enjoy."

For more information on upcoming events for the holiday season, visit https://rucker.armymwr.com/us/rucker.

For more information or to make a reservation for Breakfast with Santa, call 255-0769.