The history of what and how we eat encompasses everything from the prehistoric mammoth luau to the medieval banquet to the modern three squares a day.

Find out about the rocky evolution of table manners, the not-so-welcome invention of the fork, the awful advent of portable soup, and the surprising benefits of family dinners – plus some catchy info on seasonal foods. What’s the story of chocolate? Why do the Irish eat corned beef and cabbage on St. Patrick’s Day? Who invented lemonade? Why are turkeys called turkeys? And what are sugarplums anyway?

This is a VT Humanities talk, with speaker Rebecca Rupp. She has a Ph.D. in cell biology and biochemistry from George Washington University and now works as a professional writer.

Part of the 2026 Winter Wednesdays series, brought to you by South Hero Land Trust and Worthen Library. These free and fun events connect South Hero residents and visitors with local experts while learning about different ways to connect with our landscape.

Free and open to the public. Pre-registration is required on eventbrite or at Worthen Library.