Story and photos by Joey Phoenix
In a year wrought with cancellations, many small businesses and nonprofits have chosen to take their events online rather than cancel them outright. This decision has allowed patrons the opportunity to connect with their community and support the businesses which they have been loyal to for years.
The Taste of the Gables has been an annual fundraiser for the historic site for the past eight years, and it has become one of the most looked-forward-to events of the fall for many North Shore residents. Typically, the event would take place under the massive white canopy in the site’s gardens overlooking Salem Harbor. It would also be stocked full to bursting with local restaurants, bakeries, and breweries offering samples of their delicious fare.
This year, the Taste of the Gables will still be happening, but with a twist.
“It has been an extremely tough time for so many and The Gables is struggling just to keep the doors open. But, focusing on our mission and engaging with our supporters, members and friends is paramount,” said Pilar Garro, Director of Development for The House of the Seven Gables.
For this iteration of the popular event, attendees will be able to watch a special presentation at home featuring messages from Executive Director and Board President Kara McLaughlin, stories from the Settlement Program (past and present), and a premier viewing of the never-before-seen 3-D tour of The House of the Seven Gables.
While the main goal of the event, as always, is to raise support for the ongoing efforts of The House of the Seven Gables Settlement House, the secondary goal is to give back to local restaurants who have also been hit hard by the global crisis.
“Although we are navigating a virtual format, which is new for us, we are thrilled to retain elements of Taste of the Gables like partnering with local restaurants and vendors and telling our important stories. As we like to say, it’s the same great Taste with a Twist.”
The 2020 Twist on the Taste of the Gables will be on Sunday, September 13th at 5:00 pm. Click here to get tickets or here to preview the auction items. Dinner sales will close September 8 at 11:59 pm, orders must be picked up between 3:30 and 4 on September 13. Admissions Sales will close September 12, 2020.
