Bethlehem United Methodist Church's annual Fish Fry, Friday, July 21, Williamson County's Longest Running Fish Fry

FRANKLIN, TN---The smell of fresh cooked catfish, music and laughter will soon be filling the air Friday, July 21 at Bethlehem United Methodist Church’s annual Fish Fry in Franklin, Tennessee.

A Middle Tennessee tradition for the past 32 years, the event is considered by many as Williamson County’s longest running Fish Fry. Tom Henry, Fish Fry chairman, said all-you-can eat catfish, wonderful live bluegrass music, an incredible silent and live auction as well as a fun-filled children’s area make it a great night of fellowship.

“This has become a favorite family tradition for middle Tennesseans. The fish are still swimming in a pond in Isola, Mississippi and will make its way up just in time to be served up fresh to almost 4,000 folks. Also on the menu are hush puppies and delicious cole slaw made from a secret recipe prepared by a committee of great cooks. It is such a fun time for so many great reasons and a portion of the proceeds benefits the missions of our church,” Henry said.

Back by popular demand is the Bethlehem Bluegrass Band organized and lead by talented church Music and Arts director, Harry Robinson.

While the dinner is the main attraction, the children’s area sports an inflatable obstacle course, giant slide, castle walk, games and more. More than 350 of the members are involved in the event and some of the best cooks in the Grassland area are participating in the bake sale.

“This is an old-time summer social where you’re guaranteed to have a great meal and loads of entertainment,” Henry said.

The Fish Fry is held on the church grounds off Old Hillsboro Road in the Grassland Area from 4:30 p.m. until 8 p.m. Tickets are $8.00 for adults in advance or $10.00 at the gate – children under 10 are $4.00. Carryout dinners are also available.

Bethlehem United Methodist Church is located at 2419 Bethlehem Loop Road near the intersection of Hillsboro and Old Hillsboro Roads in Franklin, Tennessee. For more information and tickets, contact the church at (615) 794-6721.

Emogene’s Mississippi Pecan Pie or Tartlets
(Pecan Tartlets are a favorite Fish Fry bake sale item and go quickly.)

1 cup white corn syrup
1 cup chopped pecans (chopped is more flavorful)
½ cup sugar
3 eggs, slightly beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla
½ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoon butter, melted