The Longest Table 2025

The Longest Table returns OUTSIDE this year!

Howard County Library System invites you to join the Longest Table, a powerful evening of conversation, connection, and community.

The evening centers around one simple yet transformative idea: sharing a meal while exploring curiosity and empathy with neighbors from all walks of life.

Gathering for meals is a beloved custom around the world. And no matter our differences - where we grew up, how much money we have, or our beliefs - we all need to feel welcome and included. When we eat together – we connect and share in the joy of being. Our need to be seen, known and belong is satisfied. In a world of disconnection, there is no more powerful place than the shared meal.

Everyone, high school age and up, is welcome.

Be among the first 200 registrants and receive:

• A free copy of Seek: How Curiosity Can Transform Your Life and Change the World by Scott Shigeoka (one per household, while supplies last)
• An invitation to an author event with Scott Shigeoka on November 17

This dinner is just the beginning. From December to April, HCLS will provide free conversation kits to help you host your own Longest Table gatherings at home, followed by a co-creation session in May to shape the future of the initiative.

Let’s transform curiosity into connection—one table at a time.

Social hour begins at 4:30 pm. Dinner served at 5:30 pm. Formal conversations end at 7, with space available to continue until 7:30 pm.

LOCATION

• Social hour and dinner will be held outside the Rouse Company Foundation (RCF) building. Dress accordingly. In case of inclement weather, the entire event will move to the RCF.
• See parking info in the FAQs below.

MENU. Catered by Boro Kabob. Please note we cannot guarantee that foods are not cross-contaminated. If you have a severe dietary allergies or restrictions, please plan accordingly.

Beverage Station (sparkling water, bottled water, iced tea, lemonade)

Social Hour Appetizers

• Mezze Platter (Dolmas, hummus, fresh veggies, feta cheese & olives, etc.)

• Veggie Samosas (vegan)

• Shrimp Cocktail

• Roasted Rosemary Potatoes (vegan, gluten-free)

Family-Style Dinner

• Warm Pita Bread w/ toasted parmesan

• Tossed Salad w/ balsamic dressing (vegan, gluten-free)

• Teriyaki Glazed Salmon Skewers

• Italian Chicken Skewers

• Grilled Veggie Skewers (vegan / gluten-free)

• Basmati Rice (vegan / gluten-free)

• Mirza Ghasemi (vegan / gluten-free)

• Penne Pasta with basil, tomato, peppers, carrots & broccoli, with light oil (vegan)

Dessert

• 85th Birthday cake (regular and gluten-free)

• Vanilla custard (gluten-free)

• Vegan brownies

T-SHIRT SALES

Buy a 2025 T-shirt when you purchase your ticket or purchase one of a limited number (while supplies last) during social hour.

FOOD PANTRY DRIVE for HCC STUDENTS. We will collect non-perishable food and personal care product donations for HCC’s Vivian C. “Millie” and William Harrison Bailey Food Pantry, which serves between 400-500 students monthly. Urgently needed items: cereal, snacks, seasonings, thick maxi pads. Additional needed items: canned vegetables (no/low salt option, tomato products, mushrooms, olives), grains (instant oatmeal packets (lower sugar preferred) and cereal with under 11g of added sugar (whole grain as first ingredient preferred), proteins (low sodium beans, dried lentils), mixed dishes (ready made meals, lower sodium soups), beverages (shelf-stable dairy alternatives, tea, coffee), healthy snacks (plain dried fruits and nuts in small packages; popcorn, pretzels, and chips in small packages), cooking needs (spices and seasonings, cooking oils, can openers), gluten-free products, personal care (bodywash, shampoo, and conditioner; lotion, thick maxi pads), cleaning and laundry supplies. Thank you for your support of HCC students as they pursue their academic goals!

SPONSORS and PARTNERS

Presented in partnership with Howard Community College

• Gold Sponsors: Columbia Association, Friends & Foundation of Howard County Library System
• Silver Sponsors: AARP Maryland, Howard Hughes Corporation
• In-Kind Sponsor: Howard Community College
• Media Sponsors: Columbia Inspired, Columbia Mom, Baltimore Banner, WMAR-TV
• Promotional Partners: Braver Angels, Columbia Housing Center, Downtown Columbia Partnership, Howard County Economic Development Authority, Howard County Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Howard County, Luminus Network

*To enhance the experience of getting to know different people, guests will not be seated with their companions.