A steak, a pair of tongs and a giant community barbecue.

That’s the recipe behind one of Cherry Grove’s most popular annual traditions.

Residents from across the region gathered recently for the Cherry Grove Recreation & Agricultural Society’s annual “Meat” and Greet, an event that combines good food, fundraising and plenty of small-town hospitality.

Bonnyville–Cold Lake–St. Paul MLA Scott Cyr and his wife Megan were among those who attended.

“It’s one of those uniquely local events that brings people together for good food, great conversation, and plenty of community spirit,” Cyr said.

A community tradition

The event’s signature feature allows attendees to cook their own steak on a large communal barbecue, creating a relaxed atmosphere where neighbours, friends and newcomers can connect.

“There’s something special about being handed a steak, a pair of tongs, and being told to find a spot on the giant BBQ and cook it yourself,” Cyr said.

The evening drew a strong turnout from Cherry Grove residents and visitors from neighbouring communities, including M.D. of Bonnyville Councillor Ben Fadeyiw.

New attraction proves a hit

This year’s event featured a new addition: floor curling stones that the Society recently acquired.

Cyr and his wife both tried the activity and said it quickly became one of the evening’s highlights.

“It turned out to be a lot of fun,” he said. “Judging by the number of people lining up to take a turn, I suspect they’ll get plenty of use for years to come.”

Dessert auction raises support

Another popular feature of the evening was the dessert auction, which saw homemade baking sell to support the Society’s activities and facility.

Cyr and his wife purchased double chocolate muffins, while one auction item generated extra attention.

According to Cyr, Councillor Ben Fadeyiw purchased an angel food cake before donating it back to be auctioned a second time.

“That’s the kind of generosity and neighbourly spirit that helps support local facilities, events, and organizations throughout the year,” Cyr said.

Volunteers at the heart of the event

Organizers credited the success of the evening to the many volunteers who help keep the Cherry Grove Recreation & Agricultural Society active throughout the year.

Special recognition was given to:

• President Barry Machan
• Vice-President Joe Burge
• Vice-President Shea Hatch
• Treasurer Marcy Huber
• Secretary Marc Desmarais
• The Society’s Board of Directors and volunteers

“The Cherry Grove Recreation & Agricultural Society deserves a great deal of credit for organizing events that bring the community together and help keep the hall active and thriving,” Cyr said.

More than a fundraiser

For many attendees, the “Meat” and Greet is about more than a meal.

Events like this help support local facilities while reinforcing the volunteer spirit that remains at the heart of rural communities.

The strong attendance and community support once again demonstrated why the gathering has become a staple on Cherry Grove’s community calendar.

“Cherry Grove always knows how to make people feel welcome,” Cyr said. “It’s easy to see why this event has become such a popular community tradition.”

With another successful year in the books, organizers are already looking ahead to welcoming everyone back for next year’s “Meat” and Greet.