SANDPOINT — In the midst of a stellar opening, the owners and employees at Burger Dock in Sandpoint were brainstorming a way to give back to the community that had opened them with welcome arms. 

While almost seven years later neither Claire Anderson nor Savannah Pennington can remember whose idea it was, the thought of giving out a free meal stuck with the company. 

"We wanted to say thank you to the people who made that possible,” Anderson said. “We’ve kept it pretty much the same every year since, with slight tweaks here and there, but the heart of the event remains the same.” 

For the seventh year in a row, the Burger Dock will be serving up a holiday meal Wednesday, Nov. 26, from 4 to 6 p.m. This year will feature the restaurant’s November special Harvest burger, sweet potato fries and a pumpkin spice shake.

Anderson said Burger Dock partnered with Evans Brothers Coffee for the special shake, so attendees can expect an authentic holiday flavor.  

"I would never serve any food that I wouldn’t serve to my own children, free or not,” Pennington said about why they choose to offer a full meal. “It doesn’t feel like a gift, if it’s not good.” 

Burger Dock opened in 2019 as a permanent location based off their seasonal food truck “The Old Tin Can.” Pennington said the community was thrilled for the opening and that the giveaway felt right given the gratitude-focused holiday.  

During that first year, they held their first free meal giveaway when Pennington said everything that could go wrong, did. 

"We tried to utilize turkey and we’re a burger joint, so turkey will never be on our menu, period.” Pennington said with a laugh. “Turkey just isn’t as good as beef, not on a burger.” 

Anderson said as the event has continued, it’s become a staple in the community and the line begins to form around an hour before they begin giving out meals. That’s why Anderson said she encourages those interested to arrive early while supplies last. 

"That’s my favorite thing is going out and seeing the line, the enthusiasm and the appreciation for it,” Anderson said. “Get here early!”