Loma Prieta Volunteer Fire & Rescue
The Firefighters’ Barbecue
By Miriam Watson · June 2026 · Volume MMXXVI, Number 6 · Page 5 · 2 min read

Once a year, our community gathers for a special day to celebrate and support the volunteer firefighters who answer the call, day or night, when our community needs them. On Sunday, June 7, beginning at 11 a.m., neighbors from across the mountain are invited to gather at the Mountain Complex (23845 Summit Road) for the annual Loma Prieta Volunteer Fire & Rescue firefighters barbecue and fundraiser.
This long-standing mountain tradition brings together great food, family fun, and a chance to thank the volunteer firefighters who serve our community year-round. Come Hungry. The grill will be going all afternoon with a delicious barbecue lunch.
Choose from rib eye steak, marinated chicken, or portobello mushrooms, served with garlic bread, beans, and fresh salad. Save room for ice cream and an irresistible assortment of home-baked desserts, generously provided by members of the community and available all day.
Fun for children (and the young at heart). There’s something for everyone throughout the day. Children can test their aim at the dunk tank, try their hand at firefighting challenges, and explore fire engines. Everyone loves the auto-extrication demonstration, where our firefighters show how they rescue people from vehicle accidents. It’s a powerful glimpse into the lifesaving work they do on our mountain highways and roads.
Visitors will also have the chance to see fire engines from across Santa Cruz County and Cal Fire. We’re always hopeful a rescue helicopter or air ambulance will be able to fly by and make a landing. Representatives from the Sheriff’s Department, Summit CERT, Cal Fire, and the Fire Safe Council will be on hand, sharing information about safety and emergency-preparedness.
The raffle. Our legendary raffle will feature an impressive collection of prizes generously donated by local businesses and community supporters. In past years, lucky winners have taken home river-rafting trips, hotel stays at Chaminade, chainsaws and other power tools, barbecues, restaurant gift certificates, wine, gift baskets, and other great surprises.
Supporting the volunteers who protect our community. Every dollar raised supports Loma Prieta Volunteer Fire & Rescue. From wildland and structure fires to medical calls and accidents along Highway 17, these volunteers often leave work, family dinners, or a full-night’s sleep behind when they hear the call.
The firefighters barbecue is our chance to gather as neighbors, enjoy a wonderful day together, and support the people who are always there when our community needs them most. Bring your family, bring your friends, and spend the day with your mountain neighbors while supporting a worthy cause.
We hope to see you there.

