FOLEY — Preparations are well underway for the Foley Optimist Club’s 30th annual Taste of South Baldwin fundraiser.

The event will take place from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Sept. 17 at the Foley Civic Center.

Foley Optimist Club President Jay Dickson said the event, which will run from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., is the largest annual fundraiser for the organization.

“This is one of our biggest fundraisers we hold throughout the year, and it helps us give out the scholarships and awards we have become known for around here,” Dickson said. “As long as we have been hosting this event, we have had incredible support from the community. Without that support, we couldn’t give back to the community like we do.”

Throughout the year, the Optimist Club gives out scholarships and hosts different programs to benefit area youth.

Dickson said he is hoping to sell 500 tickets to this year’s event.

Brenda Shambo, secretary for the Foley Optimist Club, said she has no doubt the organization can reach that goal.

“I have probably been to this event 25 times over the years, and it always attracts a big crowd,” Shambo said. “We generally draw 400 to 450 people, and so I know we can get to 500 this year.”

This year’s event is sponsored by Citizens Bank, Trustmark Bank, Volkert, Baldwin EMC, Riviera Utilities, Safety Coatings, United Bank and HMR, LLC.

This year’s vendor list includes Acme Oyster House, Budweiser, Cain’s Piggly Wiggly, Cobalt, Coca-Cola, Cosmos, Fish River Grill 2, Foosackley’s, Honey Baked Ham, Ivey’s, LA BBQ, Moe’s BBQ, O’Charley’s, Peng Garden, Portabellas, Shrimp Basket, Stacey’s, Sweet Home Farm Cheese, Sweet Southern Scratch, Wolf Bay Lodge and Zaxby’s.

Door prizes and silent auction items donated by area businesses will be available during the event.

Fox10 meteorologist Michael White will be the emcee for the evening.

Tickets for the event can be purchased beforehand at Foley City Hall, Citizens Bank, Ebert Agency, United Bank or from any Foley Optimist Club member for $20 a piece.

Tickets will also be available at the event for $25.