Dozens of people lined up for hours in the cold and wind Sunday morning to take advantage of an annual Toronto tradition -- the Honest Ed's Christmas turkey giveaway.
The giveaway, in which members of the public receive one free turkey and one free fruitcake each, has been an important event for the company for 21 years, says Honest Ed' son, David Mirvish.
"I think it started out as a door crashing special," he tells CP24.
"We started out selling them for 25 cents but then times got a little tougher. It gives us a chance to be part of the community and feel that we're with people who care."
Toronto Argonauts CEO Mike "Pinball" Clemons was on hand to help give out the free birds. He says the handout signifies the type of generous person Ed Mirvish was.
"We're in tough economic times and Honest Ed is helping again," says Clemons. "He was such a great role model for me. He represents the holiday season and today his spirit lives on."
OPP Commissioner Julian Fantino was also on hand to spread the turkey love.
The massive Honest Ed's discount store has been a landmark at the corner of Bloor and Bathurst Streets since 1948. Founder Ed Mirvish died last year at the age of 92.
Store managers say they've given away more than 30,000 turkeys over the years.
