A Legacy of Community and Tradition
The Manchester Chicken Broil is more than just a local event—it’s a tradition that has been bringing people together for over seven decades. This year, the 72nd edition of the event took place on Saturday, July 29, at Alumni Memorial Field in Manchester, Michigan, serving up around 10,000 meals to an estimated crowd of 8,000 attendees. The event was made possible by the efforts of approximately 400 volunteers who cooked nearly 8,000 chickens, making it one of the largest community gatherings of its kind.
Gary Bross, co-chair of the chicken broil, shared the origins of the event. “We’ve done this since 1954,” he said. “It started as a fundraiser for Manchester in cooperation with Michigan State University to advance the poultry business.” Over the years, the event has evolved from a simple fundraiser into a powerful tool for supporting the local community.
Today, the proceeds from the Manchester Chicken Broil go toward essential projects that benefit residents of all ages. This year, the funds will be used to support the construction of a new athletic complex for Manchester Community Schools and a greenhouse for Klager Elementary School. These projects are seen as vital investments in the future of the community, particularly in areas that often struggle to secure funding through traditional budgeting processes.
The event itself remains a beloved staple of the summer season. Attendees can expect a classic menu featuring a half-pound chicken, a warm roll with butter, and fresh-made coleslaw. The simplicity of the meal adds to the charm of the event, which has remained largely unchanged over the years.
In addition to the food, the Manchester Chicken Broil also showcases the power of community involvement. Volunteers from all walks of life come together to prepare and serve the meals, creating a sense of unity and shared purpose. The event has become a symbol of what can be achieved when people work together for a common goal.
Behind the scenes, the logistics of the event are nothing short of impressive. According to organizers, the broil requires an enormous amount of supplies, including:
- 15,000 pounds of chicken
- 9,600 pounds of charcoal
- 265 pounds of butter
- 10,000 dinner rolls
- 10,000 one-ounce potato chip bags
These numbers highlight the scale of the operation and the dedication of those involved in making it happen each year.
The Manchester Chicken Broil is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of community spirit, history, and shared values. It serves as a reminder of the importance of coming together to support local initiatives and invest in the future of the area. For many, it’s a tradition that brings joy, nostalgia, and a sense of belonging.
As the event continues to grow and evolve, it remains rooted in its original purpose: to bring people together for a good cause. Whether you’re a long-time attendee or a first-time visitor, the Manchester Chicken Broil offers a unique experience that reflects the heart and soul of the community.
