MENDOCINO CO., 12/5/25 – The Anderson Valley Grange will host its annual holiday potluck Sunday in Boonville for community members to enjoy locally sourced food and drinks and socialize with friends, family, and newcomers.
The holiday potluck dinner will be held at 5:30 p.m. Sunday at the Anderson Valley Grange Hall, 9800 Highway 128, in Boonville.
The potluck is a free event and will include holiday staples such as turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, drinks and appetizers. Because the dinner is potluck-style, members of the Anderson Valley Grange encourage attendees to bring a homemade dish to share.
Robert Salisbury, who goes by his chosen name, Captain Rainbow, is one of the organizers of the event and one of the grange’s executive directors. He said in an interview that hundreds of people attend the grange holiday potluck each year, and he believes it’s one of the best community dinners in Mendocino County.
“It’s become a fabulous social event. It is the best potluck ever,” Rainbow said. “You don’t get Doritos, people make the best stuff. If you come, you’ve got to bring something.”
According to Rainbow, attendees are encouraged to bring their own utensils for their meal, though it’s not a problem if someone forgets. It’s also important that people who bring a potluck dish label the ingredients, so those with dietary restrictions know which foods to avoid.
Rainbow said the grange tries to source its ingredients locally each year, and some dishes, like the mashed potatoes, come from farms in Anderson Valley. He said the potluck gives friends and acquaintances a chance to come together and socialize.
“There is plenty of food for everyone, and it’s free,” he added. “These dinners make people realize that this place is a community.”
To sign up to volunteer at the potluck dinner, like helping with food preparation or cleanup, click this link.
Questions about the holiday potluck dinner can be sent to infoavgrange@gmail.com.