Santa is coming to McNeil next weekend to spread some Christmas cheer to the children of Pearl River County.

Mardi Gras Zone is hosting Breakfast with Santa on Dec. 18 starting at 9 a.m.

“The main goal is to offer an opportunity for families that can’t afford to go to mall to see Santa,” Mardi Gras Zone owner Sebastian Vitale said. “It’s one of those quintessential Christmas things I remember from my childhood and others do as well.”

Families can bring their children to meet Santa and take a photo free of charge, but donations will be accepted, Vitale said.

Mardi Gras Zone will also be selling breakfast and other items, with a $1 discount if customers bring a donation for Toys for Tots, Vitale said.

“I’m really looking forward to seeing a lot of smiles and joy, and hoping to just see that excitement,” he said. “I want to see as much goodwill as I can out of this.”

Vitale said he has heard a lot of positive feedback about the event, and hopes people will be lining up at the door to have their photo taken with Santa.

Santa will be at Mardi Gras Zone from 9 a.m. until the kids stop coming, he said.

The business is located off exit 15 from Interstate-59 in McNeill and can be reached by calling 601-798-3234.