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By DAVE DOMESCIK | Staff Writer

PELHAM – The Cahaba Valley Elks Lodge #1738 is once again inviting the community to gather for one of its most beloved traditions—its annual fall fish fry, set for Saturday, Oct. 11 from 5-7 p.m. at the lodge’s home on 1738 Morgan Park Drive in Pelham.

Billed as “Pelham’s Best Catfish Fry,” the event promises an all-you-can-eat buffet of Alabama-sourced catfish filets, homemade hush puppies, savory baked beans, coleslaw, dessert and beverages for $17 per person. Guests may dine in or take their meals to go, with tickets available at the door, from lodge members or by calling 205-987-1738.

“Guests will be greeted with the aroma of our buffet and the friendly faces of the Cahaba Valley Elks,” said Sharon Gaydon, former lodge president and current chairperson of the lodge’s public relations committee. “The fresh, Alabama-sourced and never frozen catfish filets are personally selected by our Fish Fry Chefs. Guests have always been impressed with the quality of the portions and their tasty seasoning.”

The Cahaba Valley Elks Lodge has been hosting semi-annual charity fish fries for more than 15 years, with the fall event becoming a local staple. In recent years, the dinners have drawn between 125 and 130 guests.

Beyond the food, the event directly supports the lodge’s charitable mission. Net proceeds from the fish fry benefit the lodge’s Charity Fund, which provides aid to local food banks, youth shelters, veterans’ organizations, uninsured health clinics, patriotic school programs, youth with special needs and other community services.

“The fundraiser is organized and prepared entirely by members,” Gaydon said. “Our motto is simple: ‘Elks Care ~ Elks Share.’ These events allow us to demonstrate that in real and tangible ways.”

Since its founding in 1986, the Cahaba Valley Elks Lodge has invested more than $3.5 million in community outreach. Members also participate in local programs and events such as Pelham National Night Out, Pelham Strong, the Liberty Learning Foundation, the Miracle League of Shelby County and more.

Gaydon said the fish fry is not only a fundraiser but also a chance for the community to come together.

“We invite those interested in giving back to their community to join us,” she said. “The fish fry is one of our favorite opportunities to connect with neighbors and share a meal while supporting causes that make a difference in Shelby County.”

For more information on the Cahaba Valley Elks Lodge, visit Cvelodge1738.org.