For the past 61 years, American Legion Post 6 has provided hungry Peach Festival attendees with barbecue and the fixings, and this year will be no different.

“They have done the barbecue each year the peach pageant has been done,” said Jerry Grooms, post commander for American Legion Post 6.

The barbecue will be held Saturday at Clanton City Park from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. and will cost $8 per plate. Each plate will include pork or chicken, a drink and three sides: baked beans, cole slaw and bread.

Tickets can be purchased in advance from the American Legion or on Saturday at the barbecue.

Proceeds from the barbecue will go to the American Legion.

“It helps us raise money to keep our organization going,” Grooms said.

This year, the American Legion expects to have a high turnout.

“I would say this would be one of our biggest years,” Grooms said. “We’re planning for 500.”

With such a large crowd expected, the preparation begins early. Grooms said he and his wife have been preparing for the cookout for two months.

On Saturday, the preparation will begin early as well.

“We will start the fire at 5:30 [a.m.] or so, and start cooking around 7,” Grooms said.

Anyone looking for a good lunch Saturday is encouraged to stop by.