First United Methodist Church is preparing to host its annual fall fling event, a more than 20-year tradition at the church that raises money for church missions and community outreach.

Each year, the church hosts the event to fund its ministries, said Alma Friedman, a member of the church. As the biggest fundraiser of the year, the money raised goes toward church and mission projects like its Matthew 25 Mission, which feeds the homeless one Saturday out of each month. The money is also split among other missions within the congregation, according to Kay Buckman, head of the event’s planning committee.

“We give outside the church, giving back to the community and giving to the church missions that, in turn, give to the community,” Friedman said.

Among the activities underway Friday and Saturday are an assortment of vendors, creating a fall market; photo opportunities with Santa Claus; a chicken dinner, with tickets costing $10; several auctions and a reverse raffle that will consist of items like a vacation, a big-screen television, a $150 food card, a $250 gas card and a John Deere riding lawnmower; a cake walk; a carwash conducted by a local Boy Scouts group; a food fair, consisting of baked goods; and more, according to Friedman.

The church, however, cannot guarantee dinner tickets to be available at the door and encourages those interested to purchase their tickets in advance, Friedman said. The reverse raffle tickets cost $50.

To purchase a reverse raffle or chicken dinner ticket, call the church office at 252-946-3311 or Jim Buckman at 252-945-0693. First United Methodist Church is located at 304 W. 2^nd St., Washington.