OC Around the Table: A Historic Celebration of Unity

OC Around the Table

OC Around the Table: A Historic Celebration of Unity

On Sunday, September 28, 2025, Mile Square Park became the stage for a remarkable gathering as more than 2,100 people joined together for the inaugural OC Around the Table. From the moment guests began arriving at 3:00 PM, the atmosphere was filled with warmth, anticipation, and a true sense of community.

The program opened with Cuneyt Tegin, Chair of the Organizing Committee, delivering the opening speech, setting the tone by emphasizing the event’s purpose: to create meaningful connections across cultures, faiths, and communities through something as simple and universal as sharing a meal.

The celebration continued with welcoming remarks from Fountain Valley Mayor Ted Bui, who expressed his excitement that such an unifying event was taking place in his city. California State Senator Tony Strickland, representing the 36th District, also addressed the crowd, commending the initiative as a model of community strength and collaboration. Adding to the moment, Supervisor Janet Nguyen of Orange County’s First District presented a special recognition to Pacifica Institute, honoring its leadership in fostering dialogue and civic engagement.

The voices of the organizing institutions also rang out during the event. Andrew Nelson, representing the Orange County Interfaith Network and the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, highlighted the interfaith commitment that made the gathering possible. Debbie Killey from the Fountain Valley Chamber of Commerce and Kelly Frankiewicz, President of the Greater Huntington Beach Interfaith Council, both shared their reflections on the significance of bringing people together across lines of difference. Atilla Kahveci, President of the Pacifica Institute, reminded the audience that this inaugural event was just the beginning and would grow even broader in scope and impact in the years to come.

Adding a flavorful highlight, Chef Marla McGee of the Fountain Valley Rotary Club took the stage as the judge of the Best Dish Contest—a lighthearted, voluntary competition among participants who brought their favorite recipes to share. Her presence underscored the event’s theme that food is not only nourishment, but also a joyful way to connect and celebrate culture.

Throughout the afternoon, attendees enjoyed a lineup of engaging performances. Musicians Alan Vo Ford, Aslan Duc, and Betul Semerci filled the park with music that reflected the diversity of Orange County. The program concluded on a joyful note with a spirited dance performance by Dance 4 Joy Ministries, eliciting smiles and applause from the entire crowd.

Perhaps the most historic moment of the day came when attendance was officially notarized at 2,166 participants, setting a new U.S. record for the Largest Potluck. This achievement not only highlighted the scale of the event but also symbolized the collective spirit that made it possible—individuals, families, community leaders, and organizations all contributing to something larger than themselves.

The success of OC Around the Table is a testament to the power of hospitality and human connection. Strangers became friends, stories were exchanged, and differences gave way to shared laughter and fellowship. It was more than just a potluck; it was a statement that unity within community is not only possible, but thriving right here in Orange County.

 

OC Around the Table