Lowndes County residents are invited to pull up a chair, share a meal, and join meaningful conversations at the inaugural Lowndes Longest Table, Sunday, November 15, at 4 p.m., under the James Beck Overpass in Valdosta’s Historic Southside District.

The Lowndes Longest Table, organized by One Valdosta-Lowndes (OVL), is a free event that brings together residents from different neighborhoods, backgrounds, generations, and experiences to build relationships, strengthen trust, and promote civic engagement.

“From the very beginning, bringing our community together through a Longest Table event has been a priority of One Valdosta-Lowndes,” said Mary Beth Brownlee, director of One Valdosta-Lowndes. “When OVL was established, residents identified a need to build stronger relationships and improve communication throughout the community. Lowndes Longest Table does just that—it serves as a mechanism for building trust and opening discussion about shared dreams and needs. The Longest Table brings the vision of ‘one community,’ the heart of what OVL is all about, to life through something as simple as sharing a meal and talking to your neighbors.”

The main goal is to build relationships; however, Brownlee said it’s more than one afternoon of conversation.

“We want everyone to know their voices matter and that they can help shape our community’s future. The ideas and feedback we collect will be shared with local governments, schools, parks and recreation, and other organizations to help guide future decisions and projects.”

Brownlee said the goal is to bring the event to different communities each year.

“Whether you live in Valdosta, Hahira, Dasher, Lake Park, Remerton, or anywhere in between, your voice matters—and we will bring this event to you in the years to come,” she said. “But don’t wait until it comes to your neighborhood to participate. This is an opportunity for all of us to come together, celebrate what makes our communities special and build a stronger, more connected Lowndes County.”

Community excitement is building for the inaugural Lowndes Longest Table, with more than 150 volunteers helping bring the event to life. To enhance the experience, several popular local restaurants and food vendors have created special menus exclusively for the event, including Mo’s Mediterranean, Big Nick’s, Woodstack BBQ, Jethro’s Seafood, and Chef Acree. Jessie’s Restaurant will also provide kid-friendly meals for younger guests.

The event is free and open to the public, but advance online registration is required. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure their preferred meal selection. For more information, email info@onevaldostalowndes.com. 

Lowndes County residents can register at https://onevaldostalowndes.com/llt-registration/.