Riviera (KIII news) — For 104 years a South Texas church has been dishing up Thanksgiving meals with the annual Vattman Dinner.
Vattman dinner serves thousands of people every year and organizers said the tradition isn't stopping any time soon.
According to attendees, every year they come to Riviera just for the Thanksgiving dinner.
"We bring a carload," Karen Bridwell said.
Organizers with Our Lady of Consolation said it takes months of preparation, hundreds of volunteers, and 140 turkeys.
According to Gwen Rudellat, it's become a tradition for generations of families.
"They've never had Thanksgiving at home, they have it here," Rudellat said.
According to Modesto Morales, it's his first time at the Vattman dinner.
"It is delicious," Morales said.
Morales is not just at the Vattman dinner because of the fantastic food.
"You won't have to wash the dishes, and you'll save yourself much trouble," Morales said. "Very peaceful and enjoyable."
Bridwell is returning for her 15th year and said the dinner had become a family affair.
"We love it, not only is it just fun, the food is great, and everybody is very friendly," Bridwell said.
'Tis the season for family, food, more food, and giving thanks.
"My family and the freedom we have in our country," Bridwell said.
While the attendees are thankful for the Vattman dinner, they're even more grateful for the people behind it.
"We give so many of our hours to it, our days and so much thought and prayer I. I don't know what we'd do without it, it is just our life," Rudellat said.
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