The Oak Harbor community rallied around one of its treasured traditions this year and fed thousands of people at Thursday’s North Whidbey Community Harvest at the Oak Harbor Elks Lodge.

This year’s dinner almost didn’t happen because one of the event’s top planners had to step down due to a family emergency, according to organizer and chef Scott Fraser.

Fraser said community leaders, led by Elks Lodge President Skip Pohtilla, stepped in to save the event.

“It’s probably one of the best ones we’ve ever had,” Fraser said.

Pohtilla could not be reached for comment.

The Thanksgiving Day event typically feeds around 3,000 people with 200 turkeys and 100 hams, along with all the fixings, sodas and appetizers.

In addition to the mountain of food provided through a wide partnership of food and monetary donations, an army of volunteers was on hand to ensure the event ran smoothly. Island Thrift is the largest sponsor.

“I just like doing it,” said Robi Tull, who has been helping with frying and roasting the meat for the last six years.

Tull said like many families, he had relatives start coming because they didn’t wanted to bother with a home-cooked meal, and then they continued to come and volunteer for the event.

“Most everyone does it because of what it entails,” Tull said. “Supporting the community regardless of social status. It’s a great meal.”

Fraser said donations were up this year from last year with some in the hundreds of dollars.

“It’s coming from people who can obviously afford a meal but wanted to be around people for Thanksgiving,” Fraser said.

The event continues to honor its founder, Keith Bartlett, who died of a heart attack while preparing  the third year’s meal.

Fraser said Bartlett’s motto was: “I don’t care of you come in a Rolls Royce or come on foot. Everyone is welcome.”

On Central Whidbey, the 16th Coupeville Community Potluck was also held Thursday, hosting another free community meal at the Coupeville Recreation Hall.

The smaller affair saw hundreds of Coupeville residents who came to socialize and enjoy a free turkey dinner. Organizers provided the main course and attendees were asked to bring a side dish if they wanted to.