Thousands attend Potluck in the Park’s 30th annual Christmas dinner

PORTLAND Ore. (KPTV) – One of the best parts of Christmas is the food, but many go without it. One of Portland’s largest and most popular events is giving many people the opportunity to eat during the holidays.

The 30th annual Potluck in the Park Christmas Dinner was held at the Portland Art Museum and hundreds of volunteers brightened the holiday with kindness and a free holiday meal for more than 1,000 people in need.

“Turkey, gravy, stuffing,” Paula McCarbin said. “Pumpkin, green beans, everything.”

Just a few ingredients that appealed to McCarbin and helped restore hope to those they may have lost along the way.

“It’s really special for me because I don’t really spend time with my family at Christmas, so it gives me a place to be,” McCarbin said.

This makes dinner more than just a meal, but a community for those who are away from their loved ones over the holidays.

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The Union Gospel Mission in Old Town provided 350 free meals to community members in need on Christmas Day.

“It’s beautiful, it’s like cooking at home and I feel warm and fuzzy,” said Lisa Palucci, who attended the dinner from California.

A Christmas dinner shouldn’t be without good old nostalgia, such as the appearance of Santa Claus, which some people were hoping for.

“For me it’s the best, look at the beautiful work they do, the tree, everyone comes over, it’s a good meal, I’ll take a photo with Santa soon.” That’s the real reason, why I came,” said Kenneth Campbell.

This year marks the 30th annual Potluck in the Park Christmas Dinner and they say the event showcases the heart of Portlanders.

“Portland has a lot of good community spirit,” Campbell said. “It’s a beautiful time of year, good spirit.”

The potluck also hosts a free hot meal every Sunday in the North Park Blocks.