All are welcome to take a seat at this table

Nichole Luczak is going to need a big tablecloth.

The United Way of Bay County, headed up by Luczak, is hosting its second annual Longest Table at 5:30 p.m. Wed., Sept. 13. The event takes place at a dinner table stretching down the middle of Washington Avenue between Fourth and Fifth streets.

The event encourages community members of all walks of life to come together and share a meal, says Michaela Garcia, the United Way’s Marketing, Communications, and Events Manager. 

Tickets are on sale now for the event, which includes music, games, drinks, food, and even ice cream.

“We want to highlight small businesses that are Bay City rooted, so all our vendors are from Bay City,” Garcia says.

The event includes centerpieces from Regent Floral & Mercantile, music by Empty Canvas Live, drinks from Tri City Brewing Company, a family-style meal from Old City Hall, and ice cream from Cream & Sugar Ice Cream Company. The State Theatre also is a sponsor.

The evening is about more than just good times and good food.

Garcia and Luczak hope to encourage conversations between people who might not otherwise meet. 

Tickets are $80 and $100 for individuals. Event sponsors also receive tickets.  Garcia hopes the sponsors distribute some of their tickets to people in underrepresented populations who might not otherwise attend. 

The United Way also is accepting donations from individuals who want to send underrepresented people to the event and ensure the guest list is diverse.

“This year, on our ticket pages, you can buy a ticket and donate a ticket to a community member,” Garcia says. “There’s also a section that says ‘I’d like to attend, but can’t afford to.’ “

To buy tickets and learn more about how to qualify for the donated tickets, visit the United Way website. 

Sponsorships are still available for the event, which raises money for programming that focuses on education, health, and income stability. Contact Garcia to learn about sponsorships.