Connection in Shared Meals

Whether it’s a lobster dinner with whoopie pie for dessert or turkey, pumpkin pie, and all the trimmings, a shared meal shows us the value of connection. At Thanksgiving, good food, loved ones seated together, and lively conversation bring a sense of warmth and belonging.

For many, Thanksgiving is a tradition that stirs memories — not just of past holidays but of other shared meals in special places. Thanksgiving makes us think of meals at Maine Camps where the communal dining hall experiences teach us the value of connection, laughter, and gratitude. Even casual meals like picnic lunches and campfire dinners with simpler fare have profound meaning.

The power of a shared table: At camp, meals are the time everyone comes together, with no distractions. There are no cell phones, no gaming devices, and no TVs. Campers and staff talk, sing, cheer, eat, and connect. Meals are the cornerstone of the day. Similarly, Thanksgiving asks us to pause, set aside our screens, and focus on one another. At home, during the school year, many families aren’t able to eat togther because of hectic sports and extracarricular activities, parents’ work schedules, and beyond. At camp, the community comes together for shared multiple times each day which is a wonderful grounding experience. At Thanksgiving as we gather with family and appreciate the joy of togetherness, we also think about and appreciate our summer camp life when camp meals are full of the connection, community, noisy energy, and gratitude.

Communal meals feed our bellies and our souls. Thanksgiving is a time to gather, feast, and celebrate the bonds of family and friendship. Similarly, at camp meals we feel the deep comfort that comes with shared meals and cherished tradition. At camp meals, campers are surrounded by other campers and staff who become like family. These meals together bond us, teach us, and remind us of the joy of togetherness. Happy Thanksgiving!

Maine Camp Experience Resources & Tools

Looking for the perfect Maine camp for your child? Try out our helpful tool where you can select a camp by choosing: type of camp (girls, boys or coed) and session length (1-8 weeks). It helps to narrow down a few camps to a manageable list that includes rates. Then you can research these camps in more depth. Next, be sure to contact our Maine Camp Guide, Laurie to discuss these camps as well as for free, year-round advice and assistance on choosing a great Maine summer camp for your child.