A longtime local tradition returns Saturday as the annual Orio Chowder gets underway with around 1,200 gallons of chowder in the recipe.
Wabash Presbyterian Church Pastor Kevin McGinnis recently joined us on the WSJD Morning Show to talk about the event, which begins long before customers arrive tomorrow morning.
McGinnis said volunteers begin showing up tonight around midnight, and before long the grounds are filled with activity as crews prepare 11 kettles of chowder at a time.
Automatic stirring equipment has made the process easier on volunteers over the years, although some hand stirring is still required before the chowder comes off the kettles.
This year's chowder is 30 dollars per gallon, with containers provided. Drive-thru carryout service begins at 6:30 Saturday morning, allowing customers to remain in their vehicles while volunteers load their chowder.
And chowder isn't the only attraction.
The sandwich line is expected to open around 10:30 Saturday morning, with food available into the afternoon.
A softball tournament is also planned, along with washers beginning around 11 a.m. and horseshoes at approximately 1 p.m. The church grounds offer plenty of parking and shaded seating under several tents.
McGinnis said additional volunteers are always welcome, whether it's helping with the chowder, washing dishes or assisting with other jobs throughout the day.
For those traveling from Mt. Carmel, organizers suggest taking Bridgeport Road from Route 1 to Highway 11, turning left and then following the Orio church signs.
The annual Orio Chowder is tomorrow, with drive-thru carryouts beginning at 6:30 a.m. Chowder is 30 dollars per gallon, and containers are provided.
