MARQUETTE, Mich. (WZMQ) – A simple meal can go a long way toward bringing people together. That’s the idea behind Marquette’s longest table community picnic, part of this year’s Spread Goodness Day celebration.
Today’s picnic invited neighbors and strangers alike to share food, conversation, and community spirit at the Marquette Commons.
“The longest table is we just put a bunch of tables together, put some decorations out, and we invite you to come have a picnic with us, whether you get takeout, take some food from home, or if you just come for the conversation and entertainment. It’s about getting together,” said event co-host Anna Dravland.
The free event is part of the Nationwide Together Tuesday movement, a national community-building initiative created by the organization behind Giving Tuesday, held on the fourth Tuesday of June. It encourages people to take part in simple acts of generosity and community connection.
“They invented the holiday ‘Together Tuesday’ with the intention of getting them to focus on what our community needs, what it can look like when our community gets together for specific purposes,” said Dravland.
Families were especially encouraged to attend; organizers had chalk and bubbles, as well as face painting available for children, creating a relaxing environment for people of all ages. “What’s more basic and simple for us to join together than over a simple meal? It doesn’t matter where you’re coming from, what you believe, even, or or what side of the aisle you’re from. It’s let’s just break bread together. Let’s get together for a simple meal, sit together as neighbors,” said LoveMarq Church Pastor Chad Mager.
This isn’t a fundraiser or festival in the traditional sense. It’s a deliberate effort to combat loneliness and strengthen community ties through something as simple as sharing a meal with people you might not otherwise meet.
To learn more about Spread Goodness Day and future events, please visit https://www.spreadgoodnessday.com/
