A Twist on the Taste — The Gables' annual fundraiser is virtual with a few fun twists

Fans, supporters and friends of The House of the Seven Gables Settlement Association are invited to step away from routine for a bit on Sunday, September 13, and join The Gables for something fun, worthwhile and delightfully novel — a Twist on the Taste. The Gables’ annual Taste of The Gables is going virtual … with a twist.
 
Back in what people now nostalgically refer to as ‘normal times,’ there was Taste of The Gables. For seven years The Gables planned and hosted this popular fundraiser on their seaside lawn. It happened every September and it included delicious foods and drinks donated by generous, talented chefs and vendors. There were also auctions, photo ops, tastings, entertainment and lots of friends. The signature community event helped the National Historic District fulfill its mission to be a welcoming, thriving historic site and community resource that engages people of all backgrounds in The Gables’ inclusive American story. 
 
The community’s support has never been more important than right this minute. Twist on the Taste is one fun way to step up and help. The event may be virtual but there will still be some of the same good food, an online auction, a virtual Paddles–Up (fund-a-need), some short and poignant presentations and even the unveiling of a new 3D tour of the House of the Seven Gables. The fee is $20 for members and $30 for nonmembers. Go to The Gables’ website for information on tickets, ordering food and to view the auction items. You can order meals and delicious foods now and pick them up between 3:30 and 4:45 p.m. on September 13. The event starts at 5 p.m.
 
While The Gables’ friends won’t gather on the seaside lawn this September, they can gather friends and family at home. Participants will be proud to know that their involvement immediately helps The Gables survive the pandemic and be there for Salem, the North Shore, our country and the thousands of international visitors that look forward to experiencing such an important part of America’s story. 
 
“It likely comes as no surprise that the COVID-19 pandemic has hit The Gables especially hard,” says Executive Director Kara McLaughlin. “While we have always relied on philanthropic support in fulfilling our mission, the fact of the matter is that over 80 percent of our revenue is earned through in-person visitation and store sales — with most of that visitation coming between April and October. While we have gone to great lengths to cut costs, The Gables is not an inexpensive organization to run.”
 
Besides Twist on the Taste, The Gables continues to offer programming virtually, some member events and access to the beautiful seaside grounds and gardens.