Last Thursday, on November 21st, the warm and inviting atmosphere of Yale’s residential dining halls was even more pronounced as students gathered for the eagerly anticipated Harvest Dinners. This annual event, known for its casual and cozy vibe, brought a delightful touch of the season to the university’s vibrant campus life.
The dining halls were adorned with seasonal decorations, creating a festive backdrop for the event. Students were encouraged to reflect and share their gratitude by writing down what they were thankful for on pieces of paper and hanging the notes around the dining hall to share with their peers. This simple yet meaningful tradition helped to foster a sense of community and a shared sense of gratitude among students.
The menu was a true homage to the harvest theme, featuring a variety of delicious dishes that celebrated the flavors of the season. Among the highlights were herb-roasted turkey with gravy, butternut squash soup, and a velvety butternut squash ravioli with brown butter sauce.
A special addition this year, the roasted salmon with blueberry glaze, was inspired by a paper on Indigenous dishes and Harvest dinners written by Julia Wang, '24 while she was a student at Yale. Her research brought a unique and thoughtful touch to the menu, honoring culinary traditions within the Yale community.
Alexa Gotthardt, Senior Manager of Marketing & Communications at Yale Hospitality, shared her excitement about the event. “The Harvest Dinners are a wonderful opportunity for students to come together and celebrate the season,” she said. “We're proud to create a welcoming and festive atmosphere in our dining halls, and it's heartwarming to see the students enjoying the meals and each other's company.”
As students enjoyed their meals, they were also treated to some special appearances from campus favorites. Handsome Dan stopped by Silliman, much to the delight of everyone there, while Heidi the dog brought smiles and joy at several residential colleges.
The Harvest Dinners at Yale are more than just an opportunity to enjoy a great meal; they are a cherished tradition that brings students together, celebrating both the season and the strong sense of community that defines residential life. Whether it’s through shared stories, meaningful activities, or simply the warmth of gathering together over a meal, this event captures the essence of togetherness and gratitude that the harvest season embodies. The communities forged during these dinners not only enhance the students' time on campus but also lay the foundations for lifelong connections within the Yale alumni network post-graduation.
