Potluck Party Etiquette

​Four years ago, at the height of COVID, I wrote a LinkedIn article titled "Is the office Potluck Party a thing of the past?" At the time, at least at our office, any party was a no-go. Fast forward four years, and parties are back in session!
 
One of my favorite types of parties is a potluck party because it is more relaxed and allows you to try a variety of yummy dishes. If you've never experienced one, it's a communal meal where guests bring food to share with the other guests.
 
Here are some potluck party tips for both the host and the guest to ensure your next potluck is a pleasant experience for everyone.

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Potluck Host Etiquette

Planning The Potluck
Consider providing a main course and having guests bring side dishes, desserts, and beverages. Also, decide whether you will provide the plates, cups, napkins, and utensils or ask a guest to bring these items.
 
Handling Dietary Restrictions
When inviting guests, ask about dietary restrictions to ensure there are options for everyone. If someone has very specific dietary needs, suggest they bring a dish they can eat and also be shared with others.
 
What Guests Will Bring
When guests ask what they can bring, have a list of items that will be needed: appetizer, salad, side dish, dessert, beverages, etc. Avoid dictating a specific recipe for an item. Instead, let guests decide what recipe they will bring. Have items on the list that will fit into budgets of all sizes. Remember that not everyone is a chef, and some items may be store-bought. Also, ensure there are enough serving utensils or ask attendees to bring them with their items.
 
Leftovers
If there are leftovers, ask the person who brought the item if you can offer them to other guests to take some home. Providing extra disposable containers for guests to take leftovers home is a nice gesture.
 
Potluck Guest Etiquette
 
RSVP Promptly
RSVP as soon as possible so the host can plan accordingly. It's important to let them know if you're coming and what you'll be bringing to avoid duplicates.
 
What to Bring
If everyone is asked to bring a food item to share, bring something if possible. Remember, you don't have to bring a homemade item. It can be store-bought. When in doubt, ask the person organizing the party for suggestions. If the host has set a theme for the potluck (e.g., Mexican, BBQ, or holiday-themed), make sure your dish fits the theme. If you're unsure, ask for ideas.
 
Ask About Dietary Restrictions
Check with the host or organizer about any dietary restrictions or preferences among the attendees. Label your dish accordingly if it's gluten-free, vegetarian, or contains allergens like nuts. Also, label your dish and serving items if you want them back.
 
Bring Enough for Everyone
Be sure to bring enough food to share with the group. A good rule of thumb is to bring a dish that serves at least 8-10 people or the number the host suggests. Remember to bring appropriate serving utensils for your dish. Hosts may not have extras, and it avoids the hassle of trying to find something last-minute.
 
Be Punctual
One of my pet peeves is when someone shows up with a dish for a potluck party just as the event is winding down. Please arrive on time so the food can be set up properly, and the event can start smoothly. Arriving late can delay the meal and inconvenience the host.
 
Offer To Help the Host
Potlucks are collaborative events, so be proactive in offering to help with setup or cleanup to show appreciation for the host's efforts. Once the event is over, take responsibility for your dish. This includes bringing containers for leftovers and cleaning up any mess.
 
Leftovers
If there are leftovers, ask the host if they would like you to leave them or if someone else would like to take some home.
 
This combination of tips will help you navigate the do's and don'ts of potluck gatherings while making it an enjoyable event for everyone. I'm so glad potlucks are back, are you?