Many a meal was had, festive songs sung and good cheer shared during the annual Rogers Rogers Moyse Christmas Community Dinner in St. John’s this afternoon.

The 17th annual affair, which saw more than 200 turkey dinners served at the Knights of Columbus in St. John’s, also included a visit from Santa with gifts for the children in the room.

The event has become an annual festive celebration especially for those who might otherwise be alone or in need, emphasizing community spirit and giving back on behalf of the city law firm, with other organizations.

Various municipal, provincial and federal politicians and volunteers were on hand to distribute the early-afternoon dinners with all the fixings.

And once again the early reviews are two thumbs up.

It’s wonderful grand and we love it, loves it,” said one woman sitting with three longtime friends. “It warms my heart to see all this around,” said another. “The atmosphere, the music, the dinner was delicious, and to see Santa himself!”