“We just decided a while back that instead of taking the day off we’d do something fun and make it a charity event.”

Ryan Carpenter is talking about the annual Deer Harbor Inn Restaurant free Christmas dinner, now in its 10th year. Carpenter, who is co-owner of the restaurant with his brother Matt, serve around 150 people each year on Dec. 25. Guests enjoy a five-course turkey dinner, and the only thing the Carpenters ask for in return is a donation to the food bank (although that is not a requirement to attend the meal).

The festivities start at 2 p.m. and go until 6 p.m. Last year Orcas a Cappella treated the diners to an impromptu session of Christmas caroling and there is a piano available for anyone interested in contributing music to the meal.

“We get all ages, and over the years we have seen a lot of tourists because not a lot of places are open on Christmas. They come for a free dinner but they also give very generously,” said Ryan.

Matt and Ryan receive help from community volunteers to ensure the day runs smoothly. Ryan encourages anyone interested in volunteering this year to contact him.

Reservations are required; please call 376-1040. They will be accepting non-perishable items and cash donations for the food bank during the dinner.