The 16th annual veterans Christmas party at the St. Ansgar, Iowa, American Legion will be Saturday, according to a press release. Doors will open at 8:30 a.m.

Guests are urged to come early for Christmas cookies and coffee.

Veterans, spouses and the public are welcome to attend. There are no fees required.

Char’s Polka Band will play Christmas favorites, polka, waltzes and patriotic music. Lunch will be served by Heather Mitchell and Paradise Pizza.

Introductions and “share a Christmas story” begin at 10 a.m.

The master of ceremonies is Ken Borchardt of Grafton, Iowa, an Iraq war veteran with the 1133rd Trans Co. of Mason City.

The veterans Christmas party is sponsored by Phil Fleischer, Box 253, St. Ansgar, IA 50472; 641-736-2346 — not by any veterans organization.

The veterans Christmas party is alcohol- and smoke-free.