The secret location has been identified, the chefs have planned their menus and all that is left for organizers of the annual Long Table Dinner in support of agriculture education for youth is a balmy night, free of rain.
But regardless of the weather, this feast set for Wednesday, Aug. 28 will go ahead under cover, beginning with a champagne toast and finishing off with delectable deserts made by local bakers and restaurateurs.
In between courses, participants in this late summer al fresco dining experience will talk about their summer and discuss the value of ensuring that youngsters know where there food is coming from and how to cook it.
“You’re empowering kids to make their own food choices and this fundraiser is giving them the means to do that,” said Tabitha McLaughlin, executive director of the Coquitlam Farmers market.
This is the fourth year that the Long Table Dinner is being held in support of POP, the Power of Produce Club, the agricultural education program running at the Coquitlam Farmers Market all summer and fall for about 400 children.
Thanks to funds raised at this dinner, the youngsters have an opportunity to visit the local farmers market, held Sunday at Dogwood Pavilion in Coquitlam, talk to farmers, make food, such as jams or salad, make crafts, and buy their own favourite fruits or vegetables with a $3 token offered each week to participants.
McLaughlin said she’s been impressed at how enthusiastic the children are in learning how to manage their tokens, some spend them right away while others save up to buy a flat of strawberries.
“This program teaches children all sorts of skills, in addition to learning where and how their food is grown, and we hear positive things from parents about how the program is benefitting their kids,” McLaughlin said.
Because of its uniqueness and positive goals, the Long Table Dinner sells out quickly each year but as of Thursday, Aug. 15 there were about 20 tickets left.
Diners will be told the day of the dinner where the event will be held and they are encouraged to dress for the weather, as well as in a white top and denim.
“Don’t wear high heels,” McLaughlin joked.
The chefs include Fred Soofi, from Pasta Polo, who will be contributing a vegetarian dish, Jason Navarra from Drunk Turtle Dining, who will provide the main course, while Ela Made Me Do It will provide the soup, just to name a few.
For tickets or to find out more, visit here.
