Tri-Community VFD Kicks Off 4th of July with Annual BBQ Fundraiser This Weekend

The Tri-Community Volunteer Fire Department (VFD) is firing up the grills early this year, inviting neighbors and friends to its beloved Annual 4th of July BBQ Fundraiser — happening this Saturday, June 28, at the Tri-Community VFD station.

A long-standing tradition, the fundraiser brings together families, friends, and community members with a shared mission: to support the vital programs and services the VFD provides year-round. While the fundraiser usually coincides with Independence Day, this year’s event is set for the weekend before, giving everyone a head start on the festivities.

Guests can expect a full lineup of BBQ favorites, including brisket, ribs, smoked sausage, and all the classic sides and homemade desserts — prepared by local volunteers and pitmasters. Admission is free, with BBQ plates and drinks available for purchase.

Proceeds from the event will directly benefit the Tri-Community neighborhoods, helping to fund equipment, training, and emergency response initiatives.

A special addition this year: LifeShare Blood Bank will be on-site, accepting walk-up blood donations throughout the event. With summer being a critical time for blood supplies, organizers hope attendees will consider giving the gift of life while enjoying the festivities.

Public Information Officer Paul Rutledge explained the roots of the event: “The founding members started this back in the late ‘80s or early ‘90s. It was one of our first fundraisers, designed for two reasons. Since everyone’s family gets together for the 4th of July, we wanted people to be able to come enjoy a homemade BBQ plate and support the community VFD at the same time.”

He added, “Originally, the fundraiser helped us buy a set of ‘jaws of life,’ but now it covers odds and ends that taxpayer money might not fund, but that we see as direct needs in our community. A prime example is our Rescue 891 med truck—it was purchased with funds raised at past 4th of July BBQs. Now it’s a fully stocked med unit right here in our community, able to help diagnose a patient before an ambulance arrives.”

“It’s a way for us to give back a little and still fill a small need the department has,” Rutledge said.

Whether you’re a BBQ fan, a supporter of local first responders, or just looking for a fun way to kick off the holiday, the Tri-Community VFD’s fundraiser promises good food, good company, and a great cause.

Event Details:

Date: Saturday, June 28th, 2025

Location: Tri-Community VFD - 7732 FM 1005 Magnolia Springs, TX 75956

Admission: Free (BBQ plates and drinks available for purchase)

Blood Drive: LifeShare Blood Bank, walk-ups welcome.