Before the pandemic, cooking for others wasn't a frequent occurrence. It was easy to make excuses like not having enough space or preferring to go out. But as socialization resumed, potlucks emerged as a great alternative. They allowed people to control the social conditions while also offering an accessible alternative to restaurants.

Benefits of Potlucks

In those transitional days, various potluck events took place. There were soup nights, brunch meetups, and themed picnics. People brought a wide variety of food, from simple snacks to elaborate dishes. It was a time to learn about different cooking styles and share experiences.

Controlling Social Conditions

Potlucks provided a way to control the environment in which we socialized. Instead of relying on restaurants, we could gather in someone's space and enjoy each other's company. It was a shared endeavor that created a sense of community.

For example, during a themed picnic overlooking the castle in Central Park, everyone was asked to use citrus. This added an element of fun and creativity to the gathering. People brought different citrus-based dishes and shared their ideas and experiences.

Accessible Alternative to Restaurants

As restaurant prices started to rise, potlucks became an attractive option. People could bring their own food and enjoy a buffet-style meal without the high cost. It offered a more affordable way to socialize and enjoy good food.

One potluck event featured a dinner where everyone brought a different stuffed dough from around the world. From varenyky to homemade Pop-Tarts and ravioli, it was a culinary journey that everyone could enjoy.

Learning from Each Other

Potlucks also gave people the opportunity to learn from each other. By trying different dishes, we discovered what travels well and what doesn't. We also learned about different cooking techniques and ingredients.

When someone brought baozi that had an unfortunately puckered appearance, it didn't matter. Everyone liked the taste, and it was a learning experience for everyone. It showed that in the context of a potluck, most people are pretty accommodating.

Potlucks as a Foundation of Life

Potlucks have continued to be a foundational part of life. They have transformed the way we gather with multiple social groups. Even in the face of work commitments and travel plans, a potluck always seems to be on the horizon.

With Established Friend Groups

Some potlucks have been with more established friend groups, strengthening the bonds between them. It's a time to catch up, share stories, and enjoy each other's company.

For instance, a potluck tea party or a pie party brings together friends in a relaxed and enjoyable setting. It's a chance to unwind and connect on a deeper level.

Open to New People

Other potlucks, like Cake Picnic, are open to anyone who can sign up in time. This allows us to meet new people and expand our social circle.

It's amazing to see how potlucks bring together people from different backgrounds and create a sense of unity. We break bread with strangers and turn them into friends.

Potlucks and Social Connection

Potlucks fit into Project Gather, which aims to target loneliness. They provide a natural way to connect around food and deepen social connections.

Natural Entry Points for Conversation

With new people, potlucks offer natural entry points for conversation. We can ask about the dishes they made or their favorite dishes. It helps break the ice and start a meaningful conversation.

For example, if the potluck is tied to a cookbook, we can discuss our thoughts on the book and share our cooking experiences.

Reducing Social Anxiety

Potlucks also help reduce social anxiety. Unlike a single host facing the fear of judgment, everyone is making themselves a little bit vulnerable by presenting their own dish.

This creates a more relaxed and inclusive atmosphere where people can feel comfortable and enjoy each other's company.

The Anchor of Social Calendar

Potlucks have become the anchor of the social calendar. They provide a regular opportunity to gather with friends and meet new people.

Versatility in Months

Some months may be busy with work and travel, but a potluck always seems to fit in. It's a way to stay connected and maintain social relationships.

Whether it's a small gathering or a large potluck with over a hundred cakes, it's a time to come together and celebrate.

Importance of Potluck Friends

Through potlucks, we gain new acquaintances who become potluck friends. These are people we may not have known before, but through sharing food and conversation, we form a bond.

Research has shown that these low-stakes, casual friendships are incredibly important for our well-being. They make us feel embedded within a community.

Comparing Potlucks and Dining Out

While we still love going out to eat, potlucks offer a different level of engagement.

Thought and Active Involvement

Potlucks require thought and active involvement. We have to make an effort to bring a dish and participate in the gathering.

For example, bringing a pair or two of nitrile gloves for assembling a dish shows that we are committed to the potluck and willing to contribute.

Enhanced Satisfaction

Although a big meat stew may get all the attention, it's the combination of everyone's contributions that makes the potluck truly satisfying.

Simple dishes like rice may seem不起眼, but they are essential in completing the meal and adding to the overall experience.

Additional photo illustration credits: Photos by Bettina Makalintal