Pancake Breakfast with Santa: Magical Community Impact
December 15th, 2025
Pancake Breakfast with Santa is the kind of event that makes you stop and think, “Why don’t we do this more often?” On Saturday, December 6, families gathered at The Lakehouse Kitchen & Bar in Babcock Ranch for a cheerful morning hosted by the Southwest Florida Rotary Club and the SWFL Interact Club. More than 60 people attended, and the fundraiser brought in over $1,160 to support ongoing service efforts across Southwest Florida.
Pancake Breakfast with Santa
At its core, Pancake Breakfast with Santa was simple. Good food. Big smiles. Real community. Kids enjoyed meeting Santa, families snapped photos, and the room stayed buzzing with that warm holiday energy that is hard to fake and easy to love. Even better, it all happened in a space that felt welcoming and festive from the start.
Event highlights that made it feel special
First, The Lakehouse Kitchen & Bar played a major role in making the morning run smoothly. The write-up credits Chef John Hill, manager Collin, and the Lakehouse team for their hospitality and support throughout the event.
Next, the visuals mattered. South West Florida Horse Rescue, Inc. provided Santa’s throne, which quickly became the can’t-miss centerpiece for photos. Then, Heart and Sole Studios added festive music that kept the vibe light and upbeat.
Finally, the kids’ activity area helped the event feel hands-on and family-friendly. Holiday crafts were led by Linda Hageman, supported by SWFL Interact President Hailey Herren and the Interact team.
Why the Pancake Breakfast with Santa matters
So what makes Pancake Breakfast with Santa more than a cute photo op? The impact. The event raised funds for service initiatives, and it also showcased youth leadership through Interact. Plus, it created an easy, welcoming way for families to connect with Rotary’s mission in real life, not just online.
Want to learn more about upcoming events and community projects? Visit https://www.swflrotary.org/.
FAQs
Who hosted the event? SWFL Rotary Club with the SWFL Interact Club.
Where was it held? The Lakehouse Kitchen & Bar in Babcock Ranch.
How many attended? More than 60 participants.
How much was raised? Over $1,160 for service initiatives.
Who played Santa? SWFL Rotary’s Doug Purdy.
How can I get involved? Check events and contact info at swflrotary.org.
Conclusion
Pancake Breakfast with Santa worked because it mixed joy with purpose. It brought families together, supported service work, and reminded everyone that community building can be as easy as pancakes, crafts, and a little holiday spirit.
