Third Annual Christmas Eve Dinner Draws Large Crowd

The Third annual Christmas Eve Dinner held at the Millrace Kitchen in Woonsocket recently drew some 200 people who each received a hot meal, presents, and a picture with Santa along with arts and crafts.

This event is the brainchild of Ilanna Ball, a small business owner who began this tradition as a way to bridge the gap between Thanksgiving and Christmas. She received widespread community support in the form of donations, time and local businesses chipping in support.

“I am truly overwhelmed by the outpouring of support for this event,” Ball said. “There are a lot of people who came out and wanted to help out in some way. The people came out in droves and waited in line before the event started. It really means a lot to me to be able to give back to the community that gave me so much in return.”

Adeline’s, a Speakeasy Kitchen Bar, located in Cumberland, donated 200 meals to this event. Manager Philip Giguere said that he enjoys giving back to the community that has helped him to grow his business.

Rhode Island Lt. Gov. Daniel McKee also attended the event as he has done since the event began in 2017.