CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A longstanding barbecue fundraiser always brings out politicians ahead of Election Day.

What You Need To Know

  • The Mallard Creek Presbyterian Church Barbecue returned

  • The pandemic paused it for two years

  • Members of the church were excited to bring the event back

The Mallard Creek Presbyterian Church held its 91st barbecue Thursday, as they do every fourth Thursday of October.

Many politicians see it as a chance to connect with voters as it brings out thousands of people.

The pandemic paused the event for two years and this is the first year it was back.

While the event is known for drawing politicians, it didn’t start for that reason.

The co-chairman of the event, Charles Kimrey, says it started more than 90 years ago as a way to raise money.

“The very, very first barbecues were to pay off the debt from a building that was built, and over the years, you know, tradition just kept on building and the politicians realized the crowds that were coming,” he said.

Now, they still raise money for the community.

"Our goal is missions. We raise money for world missions, local missions, it goes to, you name it, storm relief or just helping someone who may need a wheelchair ramp made,” he said.

It means a lot to the volunteers that the event has returned. That’s because generations of families have been running this event.

Tommy Oheler, 83, comes from a long line of family that’s been involved with the barbecue since it started.

“It means a whole lot,” he said. “Just to bring the church together."

This year was a drive-thru and take-out only event.