Host a Holiday Potluck Communal Gathering
The term potluck was originally used in Colonial America when people visited a home or inn and they were served whatever was cooking in the pot over the fire–this was called taking "pot luck." Over time, the tradition of potluck was carried on as a way of building community and sharing fellowship. This season, keep the spirit of the potluck alive with a farm-to-fork-style communal meal celebrating the season's harvest!
POTLUCK 101
Set the Scene: Create a casual, charming tone with a backyard gathering. String lights in the trees. Set a picnic table with vintage linens and beeswax candles. Add color with seasonal produce and fresh-cut flowers.
Give Direction: Encourage guests to bring whatever they desire–crowd-pleasing specialties and treasured family recipes are good places to start. For formal gatherings, like a holiday meal, assigned dishes can ensure that traditional favorites are included and not duplicated. If any of your guests have special dietary needs, share that information with all the cooks.
Share the Pleasures: One of the joys of a potluck is watching what manifests on the table and realizing that, somehow, it has all magically come together to create a magnificent meal. Enjoy it–savor the food prepared by loving hands, revel in the company of friends and family, and appreciate all the makings of a well-nourished community!
