The day starts early for members of the Narrowsburg Fire Department as they prepare to light the barbeque-pit coals.  By the time the evening rolls around, the last of the 500 chicken dinners will have been distributed at the firehouse.

It’s an annual tradition.  And like many traditions, it involves a community of people.

The evening before, members of the auxiliary and department work to create 500 servings of cole slaw (it’s Charlie Knapp Jr.’s long-standing recipe), cranberry sauce, rolls and cookies.

The baked potatoes will be wrapped in foil and the warming boxes prepared. 

Early the next morning, the firemen will lay out the grills and place the chicken halves upon them and brush them with another special recipe marinade.

The firemen have it down to a science, and once the afternoon rolls around, the first batch of the chicken and potatoes are ready to bring to the firehouse.

By then, people will have lined up to pick up their dinners.  Traditionally the dinner, which is take-out only, sells out. And sometimes at the end of the day there are a few that remain unclaimed.

Tickets are available for $12 from any fireman and are available by calling 845/252-3328.

Be sure to get yours today!

It’s a culinary treat. It’s a community affair.