MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The Wisconsin Center in downtown Milwaukee was buzzing with activity on Monday, Dec. 23 ahead of a huge Christmas meal.

Dozens of volunteers were prepping food for about 9,000 guests at the Salvation Army Christmas Family Feast.

It's the Salvation Army's largest Christmas day meal in the country. But the purpose of the dinner goes far beyond the food.

"I walk out there later on and I see the smiling faces, the kids, the families enjoying a hot meal together --  that's pretty special, and I think we should be thankful for what we've been afforded," said Lead Chef Robert Ilk. 

This is the 30th year of the Salvation Army's Family Feast in Milwaukee. 

The meal will be served from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Christmas day. The event is free and open to the public.