The Barbecue: What does it take?

  • 500 volunteers
  • 1,400 pounds of carrots and celery
  • 3,000 pounds of potato salad
  • 3,000 pounds of coleslaw
  • 8,400 ice cream cups
  • 4,000 cartons of chocolate milk
  • 2,000 cartons of white milk
  • 6,000 cans of Coke products
  • 3,000 pounds of beans
  • 1,000 hot dogs
  • 12,000 buffalo steakettes

 

 

NMC Barbecue

The NMC Barbecue is one of northern Michigan's most popular and enduring traditions. Held every year on the third Sunday in May, it brings thousands of people to NMC's campus for an old-fashioned picnic and a chance to see their community college.

The late Gerald W. Oleson and his wife Frances, founders of Oleson’s Food Stores in Traverse City, started the annual fundraiser picnic in 1956. Oleson’s Food Stores continues to donate the food.

The event has raised more than $1.5 million for NMC programs and special projects.

When is the Barbecue?

The NMC Barbecue is always the third Sunday in May. The next Barbecue is May 16, 2010.

Tickets will go on sale in early 2010.

View our barbecue photo gallery »

 

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