Cloudy skies and a chill was not the weather expected when the event was planned months ago but that did not deter about 120 persons from sitting at one long table stretching down Fourth Street in downtown Ceres Saturday evening for conversation, some for beer and wine and all for good food.

The “One Table, One Community” event, which the Ceres Chamber of Commerce started in 2018, returned after a two-year hiatus.

Fourth Street was blocked off between North and Lawrence streets so that a long table stretching over 150 feet could be set up for dinner attended by a varied collection of residents, business people, Chamber supporters and local politicians.

“Obviously the pandemic prohibited us from holding this event for the past two years, so it was so nice seeing everyone together again and the Ceres Chamber is so thankful for the community’s support of this event,” said Renee Ledbetter, Ceres Chamber of Commerce Executive Director.

The $30-per-person event started at 6 p.m. with a wine stroll which introduced or reintroduced the community to Fourth Street businesses hosting stations where local wines provided by Berryhill Winery, Bronco Wine companies and the Daniel Martinez family were served. Stations were located at businesses along Fourth Street. Those wanting to sample wines paid $15 for a glass and unlimited samples from local vendors. Beer was supplied by Ceres based Blaker Brewing and Five Eye Brewing. 

A buffet dinner started at 7 p.m. and included delectable tastings from local restaurants including Alfonso’s, American Italian Bistro, Cocina Azteca, Cupcake Boutique, Fresh Fork, Panda Express, Save Mart Deli, Sunlight Indian Cuisine and Super Burger.

Fun activities included cornhole games.

Helping with setup was the City of Ceres, Meyer CPR & First Aid, EXIT Realty Consultants, Nick and Eileen Stokman and Sharky & Mella’s Mobile Event Services, which provided all the decor and assisted in the set-up for the event.