33rd Annual Fish Fry!
The smell of fresh cooked catfish, music and laughter will be filling the air Friday, July 20 at Bethlehem United Methodist Church’s 33rd Fish Fry in Franklin, Tennessee.
A Middle Tennessee tradition for a third of a century, the event is a cherished, old-fashioned family get-together. All-you-can eat catfish, wonderful live bluegrass music, an incredible silent auction with hundreds of items, as well as a fun-filled children’s area make it a great night of fellowship, says Debbie Sims, Fish Fry co-chairman.
"This has become a favorite family tradition for middle Tennesseans. The fish are still swimming in a pond in Isola, Mississippi and will make their way up just in time to be served up fresh to over 3,500 folks. Also on the menu are hush puppies and delicious cole slaw made from a secret recipe prepared by a committee of wonderful cooks. It is such a fun time for so many great reasons and a portion of the proceeds benefits the missions of our church," Sims said.
Back by popular demand is the Bethlehem Bluegrass Band organized and lead by talented church Music and Arts director, Harry Robinson. He will be joined by a bluegrass group from Franklin’s First United Methodist Church led by Dr. Jim McGinley.
While the dinner is the main attraction, the children’s area sports an amazing inflatable area, games and more. More than 350 of the church’s members are involved in the event and some of the best cooks in the Grassland area are participating in the bake sale.
"This is an old-time summer social where you’re guaranteed to have a great meal and loads of entertainment," Sims said.
Another great Fish Fry tradition is the Live Auction featuring items like gourmet dinners, sports equipment and high-quality used vehicles. Pound cakes by noted Grassland cook Emogene Ownby-Hyde return by popular demand as well.
The Fish Fry is held on the church grounds off Old Hillsboro Road in the Grassland Area from 4:30 p.m. until 8 p.m. Tickets are $8.00 for adults prior to July 20 or $10.00 the day of the event. Children under 10 are $4.00. Carryout dinners are also available.
Bethlehem United Methodist Church is located at 2419 Bethlehem Loop Road near the intersection of Hillsboro and Old Hillsboro Roads in Franklin, Tennessee. For more information and tickets, contact the church at (615) 794-6721 or www.bethlehemumc.com.
