Oct. 29. The Mt. Zion BBQ will take place for the 86th year on Saturday, Nov. 1. Since its beginning in 1939, the event has offered the Cornelius community an opportunity to gather for a meal, greet old friends and welcome new ones.

“We do it the old way,” said Chuck Windell, who has been tending the fire pits for more than a decade. “It’s labor-intensive, between getting the hickory and other hardwood, to slow-cooking the pork for 12 to 18 hours. It’s a labor of love but we feel like we’re helping create a joyful occasion and we are aiding the church’s local mission efforts.”

The pits are typically tended by a half dozen volunteers working around the clock.

“I love that the Mt. Zion BBQ is such a big deal in Cornelius,” said Chuck Williams, kitchen crew chief. “The town has certainly grown, but it still holds onto that feeling that comes from being a tight-knit community. The BBQ has been a part of this town for almost 90 years. Every year I get to feel I’m part of that ongoing history. My little chapter in that great big story.”

For years, proceeds from the cookout have helped support a number of local aid organizations, but chairperson Debbie Jackson said the engagement of the community as a whole is one of the more important aspects of the event.

“The BBQ is the one event in the year that involves people at every age and level of capability, from the newest members to people who’ve been around for awhile,” she said.

The dining room at Mt. Zion United Methodist will open at 11 a.m. the day of the barbecue and will offer eat-in and takeout meals with barbecue, slaw, yams, bread, dessert and beverages. A separate drive-in is also available.

Food prices have held steady over recent years despite rising costs. Donations can also be made online at www.mtzionumc.net.