Bakersville to host annual chicken barbecue and tractor pull
BAKERSVILLE – What’s better than the taste of chicken barbecue on a warm summer’s day? Having a chicken barbecue with all of your friends at the annual Bakersville Volunteer Fire Department’s chicken barbecue and antique tractor pull. The event is like a big family reunion and this year, it will be Saturday, June 16 at the Bud Hawk Arena and the community park on State Route 751 in Bakersville.
“I think the reason it’s such a success is the chicken barbecue,” said John Ridenour, fire chief at the Bakersville Volunteer Fire Department.
The chicken barbecue recipe is a closely-guarded secret that has been around for years. What makes the chicken even better are the sides served with it which include applesauce, potato salad, roll, drinks, and dessert. Serving will begin at 4 p.m. the day of the event at the shelter in the park. Prices are $10 for adults and $7.50 for children. If you just want half a chicken, price is $6.
“We have 800 chicken halves ordered for June and we usually sell out of them pretty quickly,” said Ridenour.
After enjoying your meal, head over to the Bud Hawk Arena to watch the antique tractor pull which starts at 6 p.m. Classes are broken down into different weights and tractors must be 1960 or older to participate. Awards are given out to the first, second, and third place in each class. Awards are sponsored by local businesses.
“This is one of four major fundraisers that the fire department is having this year to raise money,” said Ridenour.
The next fundraiser will be an Ohio Mod-Rod tractor pull on July 14. This features garden tractors from stock up to V-8 and diesel. The Bakersville Homecoming is also a fundraiser for the fire department and is a three-day event from Aug. 10 – 12. The Ohio Mod-Rod will be back for the fire department’s last fundraiser of the year on Sept. 8.
“All proceeds benefit the fire department,” said Ridenour. “The money goes into our general fund which is used for upkeep and maintenance of the equipment.”
Bakersville and surrounding communities are invited to come out that Saturday evening to enjoy some delicious chicken with friends, watch the tractor pull, and support a worthy organization.
Category: People & Places
