Sponsored: Vida Downtown’s Urban Picnic brunch is going to be full of festive cheer…

If sitting at a table for three hours sounds like a nightmare Christmas dinner to you, then it might be a good idea to forgo a stuffy set menu and head outdoors.

Vida Downtown is giving its popular Urban Picnic a festive makeover, encouraging guests to fill their baskets with miniature Christmas bites from the buffet and sit in the sunshine. A DJ will set the party atmosphere, and Santa will make an appearance with some “naughty and nice” drinks. Even the staff are getting involved, with festive uniforms for the occasion.

At the buffet, guests can expect a cheese selection, chestnut and pumpkin soup, smoked duck, crispy turkey strips, and grilled salmon to get you started. The selection of hot food includes, freshly baked pizza, straight from the oven, as well as a barbecue station offering prime rib eye, lamb chops, tiger prawns, and 12-hour smoked brisket.

Of course, it wouldn’t be Christmas without the traditional turkey roast, and a carving station will be on-hand to provide you with the all-important big bird along with the trimmings. Desserts on offer include pumpkin and gingerbread cake, cranberry cheesecake, and Christmas pudding.

And that’s not all. You can have a go at the Santa Piñata for your chance to win a one night stay for two at the hotel – time to start practicing your swing.

3in1, Vida Downtown, 1pm to 5pm, December 25, Dhs395 with house beverages, Dhs295 with soft drinks. Tel: (04) 888 3444, bit.ly/VidaFestiveBrunch

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