(Avoca, Iowa) – UPDATE 9/16/22: TICKETS ARE SOLD OUT! Thank you!

Seats are filling-up, but (as of today, Sept. 12) there is still space for you to sit at the table this weekend, in Avoca. This isn’t just any table, it’s Avoca Main Street’s “Longest Table.” Amber Mohr is the Executive Director of Avoca Main Street.

(As said: It takes place Saturday, Sept. 17th. Happy Hour begins 4-p.m. at the Avoca Legion Hall at 112 N Elm Street, and weather permitting, outside dining will take place from 5-7 p.m. Tickets are available at https://amslongesttable.brownpapertickets.com/ )

The meal consists of five courses designed and executed by Chef James Edward Calkins, from Milk & Honey Restaurant, in Harlan. Everything he uses is locally procured.

Paul Hart, versatile acoustic musician, will provide entertainment. The “Longest Table” was first held in 2016. Covid affected many restaurants as well as Avoca Main Street’s Longest Table, but Mohr says they were able to come up with a solution to still bring a taste of unique food to residents in the area. 

There were safety concerns last year, but once again organizers were able to work around them.

Masks are optional. Anyone who feels sick is encouraged to check your symptoms and not attend, especially if you have COVID, or have tested positive for Covid, even if you don’t have any symptoms. Servers, Mohr said, WILL be masked.

The Avoca Main Street Longest Table event is designed to celebrate the rural city’s agricultural heritage, enhance community fellowship, and recognize the farmers who provide local produce for the seasonal Avoca Main Street Farmers Market. The event was recognized in 2020 by the Iowa Tourism Awards for “Best Rural Event,” and in 2018 by the Main Street Iowa Awards as “Exceptional Special Event.”