The Longest Table

The Longest Table Returns, Bringing Community and Connection to Downtown Kent

The City of Kent is partnering with Main Street Kent and Hazelmade to foster community and connection over a shared meal.

KENT, OHIO, JULY 15, 2026: On Sunday, August 30, Kent’s largest community dinner table returns, bringing together neighbors, friends and strangers over the simple act of sharing a meal.

The premise is simple: event organizers bring the tables and chairs, and participants bring the food. The result is a free and accessible invitation to gather and spend an evening together.

Last year, Kent hosted its first ever Longest Table event, closing the Main Street Bridge and setting up 40 tables and 260 chairs for local residents to fill and decorate, enjoying food and conversation with friends and strangers alike.

This year’s event promises an even more unique experience, with double the chairs and tables and the addition of a potluck-style community dessert table. The event will also feature a limited-edition, commemorative Tea Towel, designed by Kent local business, Hazelmade, to mark the occasion.

“We had a lot of fun bringing this event to Kent last year, and think it’ll be fun to change it up this year with a new location, twice the number of tables and chairs, and giant dessert table,” shared Heather Malarcik, executive director for Main Street Kent.

This year’s Longest Table will be held Sunday, August 30, from 5-7 p.m. on E. Erie St., between the Kent State University Hotel & Conference Center and PARTA. Registration opens July 15. More information and instructions for registering can be found here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-longest-table-kent-2026-tickets-1991571058648.

The Longest Table is a national organization that partners with local communities to inspire connection and conversation over a community-wide shared table.

MEDIA RELEASE 

Contact: Heather Malarcik
Main Street Kent
Phone: 330-677-8000
Email: heather@mainstreetkent.org