Thunder Bay’s tastiest tradition is back! This Thursday marks the return of the annual CommUnity Barbecue, now in its sixth year of serving up great food for an even greater cause.

Hosted at the Roots Community Food Centre, the event brings together local organizations, businesses, and volunteers in support of food security and vital community programs. This year’s menu is anything but ordinary—expect bison burgers on bannock topped with cranberry aioli, stone-oven-baked hand pies, and the always-popular Dewey Dog from the Dew Drop Inn. Plus, with vegetarian and gluten-free options, no one is left out.

But this isn’t just about incredible eats—it’s about coming together to make a difference. Proceeds from the barbecue will benefit a host of local organizations, including United Way, RFDA, Dew Drop Inn, and Roots Community Food Centre itself. There’s also a special “Pay It Forward” initiative, raising funds for Isthmus’s backpack program, which provides food packages to over 500 local children.

One of this year’s most anticipated features? The dunk tank fundraiser, where five local community champions have already helped raise close to $10,000—and they’re ready to take the plunge for a good cause!

And don’t miss your chance to win big with the Backyard Barbecue Raffle—featuring a Vermont Castings grill and $1,000 in food gift certificates.

The CommUnity Barbecue runs Thursday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Roots Community Food Centre. Come hungry, leave happy—and help fuel real change in our community.