Avah Jelks, 3, enjoys her food during a Christmas Eve Brunch in downtown Anaheim on Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2024. The event included food, festive activities, Santa, and gifts.

Kathy and her family can't imagine spending Christmas Eve any other way. "It just warms your heart knowing that they're happy and that it's an event that it's a giving event," she said.

Mullets in Uptown Ankeny has a Christmas Eve brunch with either a smoked ham or turkey or a prime rib from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sides and dessert come with the meal for dine-in or takeout.