The annual Toys for Tots event organized by Nina’s Pizzeria and hosted at the Colonia Theater is estimated to bring in hundreds to thousands of toys for children in need. In 2019, the event raised approximately $7,000 in toy, sponsored, and monetary donations, and drew over 250 guests. (ES File Photo)

NORWICH — Local eatery Nina’s Pizzeria is holding their annual Toys for Tots dinner and a movie event at the Colonia Theater this year, on Saturday, December 4. Dinner runs from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and a screening of Jim Carrey’s “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” will play at 2 p.m.

Admittance to the dinner is $7, as well as a toy donation. This year’s meal includes baked ziti, meatballs, and drinks provided by Nina’s, and will be held in the upstairs event area in the Colonia Theater.

“The movie would be downstairs in Theater One, and the dinner is upstairs,” said Colonia Theater owner Rich Barnes. “It’s for the community ... any time we can help without it causing too much conflict in our, you know, with our regular movies, we kind of do that.”

“Come down and enjoy it,” he added. “The fact that we have that air purifying system in the theater makes us feel more comfortable, and hopefully makes the patrons feel comfortable, too.”

Several local businesses will also be donating goods to support the program, according to Nina’s employee Heather McShane, who helps organize the event.