Ho, Ho, Dough?

We all know Santa loves his carbs. But, how many cookies can a guy eat?

Looking to add some variety to the big guy’s diet – while thanking the community it feeds - is again offering its wildly popular . Maura Randa, who owns the Horsham eatery of nearly 20 years with her husband, Chip, said she expects to fill 800 bellies Tuesday evening, while giving kids a chance to visit with Santa, indulge in hot chocolate, and yes, feast on cookies.

“We feel like if we really give back to the community, people remember that,” she said. “They’re very happy.”

The event, which Mrs. Randa said began either nine or 10 years ago, had first started at the restaurant, but because of its popularity, had to be relocated to its current spot in ’s cafeteria.

“It’s completely spiraled out of control,” she said of how much it’s grown and how difficult it became to host it at the restaurant, which is located on Route 611. “You couldn’t even move. It was complete and total gridlock.”

In addition to free food, beverages and candy canes for all, Randa said she’s printed 700 commemorative T-shirts that will be given to kids under 8. Each child will also receive a wrapped present and be able to have their photo taken by a professional photographer on hand, she said. Parents can also bring their own cameras.

Tonelli’s employees – as well as the Randa’s children, ages 8, 5, 3 and 15 months – will be on hand to meet, greet and help out with various activities. And through it all, delivery drivers will be bringing in an anticipated 250 pizzas throughout the event, which runs from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.

“It’s a big night,” she said.