For half a century, the Elizabethtown Fair has been highlighting the connection between agriculture and the community. As the fair gears up for its 51st season, you can help support that mission - and get a delicious meal at the same time.

The annual Elizabethtown Fair chicken barbecue will be held on Saturday, May 11, at the fairgrounds, 900 E. High St.

The meal will be available for drive-through pickup from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dinners will include a half-chicken, potato chips, applesauce, a roll, a dessert and a drink. There is also an option to purchase just a half-chicken.

A bake sale will also be held at the same time, with proceeds benefiting the fair queen scholarship competition. Cookbooks, titled "Making Memories II," will be for sale as well. Filled with recipes from local residents, the cookbooks were created to celebrate the 50th Elizabethtown Fair.

The Elizabethtown Fair relies on community support for the barbecue, not just from the people who purchase a meal. The chicken for the barbecue will be donated by Wenger Feeds and prepared by Harvey's Main Street BBQ. Herr's will provide potato chips, and Pepperidge Farm will donate the rolls. Swiss Premium Dairy will supply discounted drinks. Mars Wrigley will contribute the desserts, and Charles & Alice will donate the applesauce.

"This is the only fundraiser to benefit the fair," said Sally Nolt, fair secretary. "The fair committee is very thankful for the support of the community and the sponsors."

Advance tickets for the chicken barbecue may be purchased from Elizabethtown Fair members and friends or by calling 717-808-1397. Tickets may also be purchased at the following Elizabethtown locations: Brandt's Farm Supply, 601 E. High St.; Groff's Meats, 33 N. Market St.; and B&G Lumber, 212 W. High St. There is a discount for purchasing tickets in advance, but advance purchase is not required.

The 51st annual Elizabethtown Fair will run from Monday, Aug. 19, through Saturday, Aug. 24. A tentative premium book and schedule can be found at https://etownfair.com.