Originally published by Staff on FloridaGuide.com
Collier County’s signature Thanksgiving tradition returns November 25 to celebrate agriculture, community and the next generation of local leaders
More than a community barbecue, the Farm-City BBQ is a Thanksgiving tradition rooted in gratitude. Held during National Farm-City Week, the event celebrates the partnership between Collier County’s agricultural community and the businesses, organizations and residents who work together to keep the region strong
What began 69 years ago as an act of generosity between local farmers and business leaders has evolved into one of Southwest Florida’s most anticipated annual gatherings. Today, thousands attend each year to reconnect with friends and colleagues, enjoy a locally sourced meal and invest in the next generation through scholarships and youth leadership programs.
“The Farm City BBQ honors the important role agriculture has played in shaping Collier County while celebrating the partnerships that continue to strengthen our community today,” said Michael Wynn, Board Chair of the Farm-City BBQ. “It is one of the rare occasions where leaders from every corner of the community gather alongside community members to celebrate the people, industries and partnerships that make our county exceptional. If you’ve attended before, you know why this tradition has endured for generations; if you haven’t, this is your chance to experience a truly special piece of Collier County history.”
The event offers something uniquely Collier County. Volunteer business leaders trade boardrooms for barbecue grills, elected officials become celebrity servers, and guests enjoy a steak lunch featuring fresh vegetables grown in Immokalee. Live music by the Back Country Boys Band, fundraising activities and plenty of cowboy hats create an atmosphere that has earned the Farm-City BBQ its reputation as the unofficial reunion of Collier County’s business and agricultural communities.
This year’s event is co-chaired by Russell Budd, Founding Partner of PBS Contractors, and Gloria Padilla, Community Relations Manager for RCMA. Paul Hilz, President and CEO at NCH will serve as honorary chair.
Investing in the Next Generation
Every ticket purchased helps support youth development programs that are building future leaders across Collier County. Beneficiaries include Collier County 4-H, Collier County Junior Deputies, Farm City BBQ of Collier County, Key Clubs of Collier County and Youth Leadership Collier.
Youth volunteers from the beneficiary organizations will also be on hand during the event, helping with fundraising activities, including the sale of the popular Farm-City BBQ carving knife, fresh vegetable bags donated by Lipman Family Farms and raffle opportunities to win a Big Green Egg grill donated by Sunshine Ace Hardware.
Tickets and Sponsorships
Tickets are $30 for the steak lunch or $40 for the steak lunch and drinks package. Prices increase on October 15 and again on November 11. Sponsorship opportunities and tickets are available at FarmCityBBQ.com.
Sponsors to Date
Sponsors to date include: Alico Citrus, Arthur J. Gallagher Risk Management, Arthrex, Bank of America, Barron Collier, Chaffee Consulting, Coleman, Taylor, Klaus, et al., Conroy, Conroy & Durant, EK Consulting, Inc., Florida Weekly, Gravina, Smith, Matte, & Arnold Marketing, Life in Naples, Manning & Napier, Naples Airport Authority, Naples Daily News, Naples Illustrated, Naples Lumber, Planning Alternatives, PBS Contractors, Rosier Insurance, Seminole Casino Hotel Immokalee, Sunshine Ace, Waste Management.
About Farm-City BBQ
The Farm-City BBQ began 69 years ago when Naples business leaders stepped in to help local farming families during a difficult harvest season. The following year, the farmers returned the favor by hosting a community barbecue, creating a tradition that continues today. Since then, the event has become Collier County’s longest-running pre-Thanksgiving celebration, honoring agriculture, strengthening community connections and raising more than $730,000 for local youth development programs. Through great food, volunteerism and shared gratitude, the Farm-City BBQ continues to celebrate the people who grow our food, support our economy and make Collier County a remarkable place to live. For more information, visit FarmCityBBQ.com.
