I got introduced to this word "Potluck", when couple of weeks back I got a calendar invite in my Outlook (mail) for a Potluck from my manager, while I was visiting my business client's office.  The word was completely new to me and to be honest I did not get a chance to look for this word on dictionary. From the invite description, I could be quite sure though, it was a lunch party.  My curious mind had to wait till I was taken across the dining hall, by my manager.

So there it was, all different dishes; soups and salads, appetizers, main course and of course desserts, served on dining area. Everything was homemade, and served in vessels of different shape and sizes.  First thing that came to my mind, was the picnics we used to have, when we were kids.  Our class teacher divides the class into groups, and decides what food which group has to bring.  Moms used to cook and pack it in large boxes, and everyone used to bring those for the picnic, venues for which usually were some nearby park or zoo. Boy! It used to be so much fun.

Back at home I could not stop myself from browsing the net to find more about this word - Potluck. Its dictionary meaning explains it quite well; a meal, esp. for a large group, to which participants bring various foods to be shared.  The origin as well as usage of this word is few hundred years old.  Though the usage is more American, the word has an English origin, its root words being 'pot' and 'luck' (of course!).  The earlier usage, basically meant food served to the guests, without any grand effort spent by the host to prepare it. More like, whatever one is lucky to get in the pot, food that is available at the host's kitchen.

With passage of time, Potluck was being used for group dinners among communities or religious groups.  Where cost of food and effort spent for preparation was shared among everyone, and usually planned earlier to cover all basic courses of meals. Amount of food brought by individuals should suffice to cater to a large portion of guests, if not all. Though because of large verify of food available, consumption of each dish becomes rather less.

These days, Potlucks have become pretty famous among the working younger generation or even for parties/lunches at work.  Mostly because, this is easier to plan and arrange for, as the host/hostess does not have to put a humongous effort to throw a party and yet it turns out to be an interesting get together. Where everyone gets a mouthful of a whole different variety and taste of food; usually consisting of all courses of meal.

But even Potluck parties, need some amount of planning for it to become a hit.  The host/hostess needs to plan ahead the party, and let the guests or participants know about specific course of the meal or drinks they need to bring,  and the approximate number of people expected for the party.  Utensils for serving, sitting arrangements, and providing basic drinks like water or soft drink becomes the host's responsibility. Also the main dish or at least one of the main dishes is usually prepared and served by the host.  So keeping these few things in mind and doing a little bit of planning ahead, can make the Potluck parties real fun for everyone.