Annual Christmas event serving up holiday cheer since 1991

One of the Mat-Su’s longest-running and steadily growing holiday traditions is gearing up for its 34th edition this year.

The annual Christmas Friendship Dinner, a community-wide event that seeks to share the holiday spirit with young and old, families and singles, got its start in 1991. It was the brainchild of Harold Newcomb and Robert Bowers, who believed in bringing people together for a shared meal, said Linda Luberger, chairman of the board of directors for the event.

From its humble beginnings serving 67 people at the Wasilla Senior Center in 1991, the dinner has grown to welcome 3,000 guests. “This was not by accident, but by the love and commitment of a community that cares deeply for each other,” Luberger said. “It’s about more than serving a meal. It’s about creating a space where everyone feels seen, welcomed, and part of something larger. It is a heart-warming event filled with loving, community-minded people who I am proud to be involved with.”

This year’s event will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Christmas Day, at the Menard Center in Wasilla. As always, the event is volunteer-fueled, including some who have been part of the event since the beginning, and without whom the process of seeking donations, prepping and serving food, and delivering meals to those who are homebound would be daunting.

“We are touched by the quiet generosity of many people, businesses, and organizations who give without seeking recognition,” Luberger said. “Volunteers bring a spirit of kindness and generosity that’s felt in every smile, every shared story, and every plate served.”

Luberger speaks from experience. She’s been involved with the event for 15 years, including the last six as both chairman of the board and lead kitchen person.

She said the growth of the Friendship Dinner has come despite escalating expenses and the time it takes to line up food donations. For the last three years, though, that burden has been partially lifted by grants from the Mat-Su Health Foundation, including one in October for $22,500.

The funds are used to replace equipment and buy supplies like paper products and food that isn’t donated by local restaurants. Luberger said the grant also enables the board of directors to increase the advertising budget this year to hopefully find those in the community with the greatest financial or emotional needs.

“Without the generous support of the Mat-Su Health Foundation, we wouldn’t be able to continue this worthwhile endeavor,” she said.

As part owner of the Mat-Su Regional Medical Center, the Health Foundation has channeled its share of profits back into the community through nonprofit organizations around the Valley. Since its inception in 2007, this investment in community health and wellness has exceeded $130 million.

“The Christmas Friendship Dinner is blessed by those who give freely and support their community without hesitation,” Luberger said. “The more people we can get involved, the more people we can feed and encourage this holiday season.”

Luberger said she hopes everyone will come out this year and enjoy being served a full Christmas menu.

“This event is for anyone who’d like to experience a little extra warmth on Christmas Day,” she said. “It’s a beautiful reminder that we’re all connected and that simple acts of kindness can lift spirits and foster friendships that last beyond the season.”

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