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Oceanfront bar and restaurant Langosta Lounge will again partner with community ally Pat Sherman of Trinity Church to host its annual Christmas Community Dinner.

Open to the public and free of charge, the dinner will be served from 11 a.m. until 2 p.m. Christmas Day, Thursday, Dec. 25.  Anyone in need of a free hot meal, warm place to celebrate or the company of the community is invited to attend.

A visit by Santa complete with toy giveaways will round out the holiday celebration.

Since its inception in 2006, the Christmas Community Dinner has served as a resource for Asbury Park community members who seek a home-cooked meal or the comforts associated with the holiday season.  In addition to a hearty dinner and gifts for children, the event offers guests a selection of warm, lightly worn clothing and coats.  Based on previous years’ attendance, hundreds of guests are expected to enjoy dinner and utilize the toy and clothing drive.

“The Christmas Community Dinner is an amazing event that celebrates the true spirit of giving at the holidays,” Langosta Lounge restaurateur Marilyn Schlossbach said. “Our group of dedicated volunteers works hard to ensure every guest is provided with the service, food and warm holiday wishes that they deserve.”

A goal of the dinner is to help alleviate the stress that often comes along with the holiday season, whether they be financial or personal, and to bring a sense of joy to those who need it most, she said.

Guests enjoy a hearty helping of holiday staples as volunteers serve table-side coffee and beverages, pack take-home meals, and sort canned goods and winter clothing.

In addition to the Christmas Community Dinner, Schlossbach serves complimentary dinners to community members on Thanksgiving and Easter.

In support of its Christmas Community Dinner, Langosta Lounge currently seeks donations of desserts, wrapped toys marked with age-level appropriateness, and lightly worn warm clothing.

For more information about the Christmas Community Dinner at Langosta Lounge, call 732-455-3275.

Langosta Lounge is located inside the Third Avenue Pavilion on the Asbury Park boardwalk at 1000 Ocean Ave.

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