International midwinter dinner

The midwinter dinner is one of the most important events in Epsom Village's yearly calendar. For many years it has been a Christmas-themed dinner, but the last two years the village decided to try something new. On 2022 Ukraine was the inspiration for the event, with residents raising funds for the war-ravaged country at the same time that they were having fun with their friends.

This year, the village has decided to celebrate that their residents are venturing overseas again after the long Covid break with an internationally inspired dinner.

The Lounge was decorated with flags from around the world and the menu included dishes from France, Italy and Germany, starting with French onion soup and finishing with Black Forest gateau. The residents embraced with open arms the theme of the evening and some of them came dressed in traditional costumes from the country they identify with.

With delicious food and great company, the midwinter dinner is one of the most popular events at Epsom Village, with around 50 guests attending (including residents' family and friends). The room always gets quickly filled with chatter and laughter, becoming one of the happiest nights at the village. This time the residents thoroughly enjoyed the performance of jazz vocalist Reuben Simpson specially when he played "The last Waltz", which had all residents accompanying him in the chorus.

The international midwinter dinner had overwhelming positive feedback and all residents agreed that it was a great opportunity to celebrate the people and cultures that shape Real Living's villages. What a night!

If you’d like to know more about joining our community contact Lyn on 021 845 524 or email Lyn.Ellis@realliving.co.nz