30 Potluck Themes to do in September
In the month of September, the air is filled with a sense of excitement and anticipation as we transition into the fall season. What better way to celebrate this vibrant time of the year than by gathering with friends, family, and colleagues for delightful potluck gatherings?
From honoring iconic figures to embracing seasonal flavors, September offers a myriad of opportunities to create unique potluck themes that bring people together. Whether you’re a fan of rock music, a lover of literature, or simply seeking new culinary adventures, these potluck themes will add a touch of creativity and joy to your September gatherings.
So, grab your aprons and get ready to embark on a culinary journey with these inspiring potluck themes tailored for the month of September.
What Potluck Themes to do in September?
Hosting a potluck with a theme adds an element of excitement and creativity, as it encourages guests to bring unique and diverse dishes that align with the theme, resulting in a delightful and surprising culinary experience.
Additionally, potluck themes promote inclusivity and create a sense of community, as everyone can contribute and showcase their culinary skills, fostering connections and shared experiences among participants.
September 1st – Emma Nutt Day: Nutty Delights Potluck
On Emma Nutt Day, celebrate the first female telephone operator, Emma Nutt, with a delightful and nut-themed potluck. Encourage guests to bring dishes that showcase various types of nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, or pecans, in both sweet and savory creations. From nut-crusted chicken to decadent nut-filled desserts, this nutty potluck theme will bring a delightful crunch to your gathering.
September 2nd – National Tailgating Day: Game Day Grub Potluck
Get ready for some football and delicious food! On National Tailgating Day, gather your friends and bring your favorite game day dishes. From buffalo chicken dip and sliders to loaded nachos and chili, the potluck will be a feast of flavors. Set up a mini tailgating area with lawn chairs, a grill, and some football-themed decorations.
September 3rd – Skyscraper Day: Towering Tastes Potluck
Celebrate the marvels of architecture on Skyscraper Day with a potluck inspired by towering flavors. Encourage guests to bring dishes that are visually impressive, like layered salads, stacked sandwiches, layered dips, and towering desserts. Transform the dining area with skyscraper-themed decorations, and share fun facts about famous skyscrapers around the world.
September 4th – National Wildlife Day: Wild-Inspired Cuisine Potluck
Celebrate the beauty and diversity of wildlife by hosting a potluck that pays tribute to the incredible animals of the wild through inspired dishes. Encourage guests to bring creations inspired by various wild animals, whether it’s a zebra-inspired black and white pasta dish or a tiger-inspired spicy curry. From a giraffe-inspired tall layered cake to a flamingo-themed fruit platter, let the animal kingdom inspire culinary creativity. Share fascinating facts about the featured animals and engage in discussions about wildlife conservation and the importance of preserving their natural habitats. It’s a potluck that combines culinary adventure with a commitment to protecting the wild.
September 5th – Freddie Mercury’s Birthday: Rockin’ Tribute Potluck
Celebrate the birth of the legendary lead vocalist of Queen, Freddie Mercury, with a potluck that rocks. Encourage guests to bring dishes inspired by Queen’s iconic songs or Freddie Mercury’s favorite foods. From “Bohemian Rhapsody” pasta to “We Will Rock You” burgers, let the music and flavors of Queen take center stage. Share stories and memories of Freddie Mercury’s incredible talent and legacy.
September 5th – Mother Teresa’s Death: Compassionate Cuisine Potluck
Honor the memory of the beloved humanitarian, Mother Teresa, with a potluck that embodies compassion and kindness. Encourage guests to bring dishes that reflect the spirit of selflessness and caring. From comforting soups and nourishing stews to dishes inspired by the regions where Mother Teresa served, the potluck will be a reminder of the impact she had on the lives of many. Take a moment to share stories of acts of kindness and discuss ways to continue her mission of helping others.
September 6th – National Read a Book Day: Literary Feast Potluck
Celebrate the joy of reading by hosting a potluck inspired by favorite books. Ask guests to bring dishes mentioned in literature, such as “Lemba’s Bread” from The Lord of the Rings, “Chocolate Cake” from Matilda, or “Green Eggs and Ham” from Dr. Seuss. Create a cozy atmosphere with book-themed decorations and have everyone share their favorite book recommendations, fostering a literary discussion that sparks imagination and inspiration.
September 7th – National Beer Lover’s Day: Brews and Bites Potluck
Raise a glass to the love of beer on this day. Organize a potluck where guests bring dishes made with or inspired by different types of beer. From beer-battered fish and beer-infused chili to beer cheese dip and beer bread, the options are endless. Have a beer tasting corner where guests can sample various brews and share their favorites.
September 8th – National Ampersand Day: Flavors in Harmony Potluck
Celebrate the versatile symbol “&” by hosting a potluck featuring dishes that embrace the delightful combination of flavors. Encourage guests to bring dishes that incorporate ingredients known for their perfect pairings, such as “Peaches & Cream” desserts, “Salt & Pepper” seasoned dishes, or “Sweet & Spicy” flavor combinations. This potluck will be a flavorful exploration of how these dynamic duos create a harmonious balance on the palate. Share stories of favorite food combinations and delight in the culinary creations that showcase the magic of “&” in the world of gastronomy.
September 9th – Adam Sandler’s Birthday: Comedy Cookout Potluck
In honor of the hilarious Adam Sandler, organize a potluck that combines laughter and great food. Encourage guests to bring dishes with funny or creative names, like “Meatball Madness” or “Giggling Guacamole.” Play some of Adam Sandler’s most memorable movie scenes in the background and enjoy a day filled with laughter and delicious treats.
September 10th – National TV Dinner Day: Retro TV Feast Potluck
Transport yourself back in time on National TV Dinner Day by hosting a potluck that pays homage to the classic TV dinners of the past. Encourage guests to recreate their favorite TV dinner staples, such as Salisbury steak, mashed potatoes, and apple pie. Set up a cozy living room ambiance with retro TV show decorations and enjoy an evening of nostalgia.
September 11th – Patriot Day: United Tastes Potluck
Commemorate the spirit of resilience and unity on Patriot Day with a potluck that brings together flavors from different regions of the country. Encourage guests to bring dishes that represent their cultural heritage or dishes that are popular in various parts of the United States. The potluck will be a celebration of diversity and a reminder of the strength found in unity.
September 12th – National Video Games Day: Virtual Buffet Potluck
Level up your potluck game on National Video Games Day by incorporating a virtual twist. Ask guests to bring dishes inspired by their favorite video games, such as “Mario’s Mushroom Pizza” or “Legend of Zelda Triforce Brownies.” Play multiplayer video games together or set up a gaming corner where guests can challenge each other. It’s a celebration that combines food and fun for gamers of all ages.
September 13th – Roald Dahl Day: Whimsical Feast Potluck
Celebrate the imaginative world of Roald Dahl by hosting a potluck inspired by his beloved books. Encourage guests to bring dishes mentioned in his stories, such as “Peach Pie” from James and the Giant Peach or “Bruce Bogtrotter’s Chocolate Cake” from Matilda. Decorate the space with whimsical decorations and have everyone share their favorite Roald Dahl moments.
September 14th – B.B. King’s Death: Blues & BBQ Potluck
In honor of the legendary blues singer B.B. King, organize a potluck that combines soulful music and finger-licking BBQ flavors. Encourage guests to bring their favorite BBQ dishes, like smoked ribs, pulled pork sliders, or cornbread. Play B.B. King’s greatest hits in the background, and share stories about his contributions to the blues genre.
Another option would be to have a Blues Potluck where everyone brings a dish that has the color blue! This could include salads with blueberries, blue corn tortilla chips with salsa, blue velvet cupcakes, or even blue-colored drinks like blueberry lemonade or blue curaçao cocktails. The Blues Potluck not only celebrates the color blue but also creates a fun and visually striking spread of dishes. Guests can enjoy a culinary experience filled with vibrant shades of blue while immersing themselves in the soothing sounds of blues music.
September 15th – National Hug Your Boss Day: Comfort Food Feast Potluck
On this special day, show your boss some love with a potluck that embraces the warmth and comfort of “hug-like” foods. Encourage guests to bring their favorite comfort dishes that evoke feelings of coziness and nostalgia, such as macaroni and cheese, chicken pot pie, or warm chocolate chip cookies. This potluck is an opportunity to express gratitude for the leadership and support provided by your boss, while enjoying a delicious meal together as a team.
September 16th – Collect Rocks Day: Stone Age Spread Potluck
Embrace your inner geologist on Collect Rocks Day with a potluck inspired by all things stone-related. Encourage guests to bring dishes that incorporate ingredients like rock salt, stone fruits, or dishes that resemble rocks, such as rocky road brownies or stone-shaped bread rolls. Decorate the table with rock-themed decorations and have a conversation about fascinating rocks and minerals.
September 17th – International Country Music Day: Southern Comfort Potluck
Celebrate the rich traditions of country music by hosting a potluck that highlights Southern comfort food. Encourage guests to bring dishes like fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, collard greens, and peach cobbler. Play classic country songs in the background and create a cozy, rustic atmosphere to honor the roots of this beloved music genre.
September 18th – National Cheeseburger Day: Burger Bash Potluck
Indulge in everyone’s favorite comfort food on National Cheeseburger Day with a burger-themed potluck. Encourage guests to bring their own burger creations with various toppings, sauces, and cheese options. Set up a DIY burger bar with different buns, patties (including vegetarian options), and a wide range of condiments and fixings. It’s a feast fit for burger lovers of all kinds.
September 19th – International Talk Like a Pirate Day: Swashbuckling Spread Potluck
Ahoy, matey! On International Talk Like a Pirate Day, transform your potluck into a pirate-themed feast. Encourage guests to come dressed as pirates and bring dishes with pirate-inspired names, such as “Walk the Plank Pasta Salad” or “Treasure Chest Cake.” Decorate the space with pirate flags and props, and have fun speaking in pirate lingo throughout the event.
September 20th – National Pepperoni Pizza Day: Pizza Party Potluck
It’s time to celebrate everyone’s go-to comfort food: pizza! On National Pepperoni Pizza Day, host a pizza party potluck where guests can bring their favorite homemade or store-bought pizzas. From classic margherita to gourmet creations, there’s something for everyone. Set up a pizza station with different pizza-related games or challenges to keep the party lively.
September 21st – National Chai Day: Spice Journey Potluck
Embrace the warmth and flavors of chai on National Chai Day with a potluck that celebrates aromatic spices. Encourage guests to bring dishes that highlight the rich spices used in chai, such as cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves. From chai-infused desserts to savory dishes with a hint of spice, the potluck will take everyone on a flavorful journey.
September 22nd – Elephant Appreciation Day: Trunk Treats Potluck
Show your love for elephants on Elephant Appreciation Day with a potluck that raises awareness and celebrates these majestic creatures. Encourage guests to bring vegetarian dishes or dishes inspired by elephant habitats, such as African-inspired stews or Thai peanut noodles. Decorate the space with elephant-themed decorations and share interesting facts about elephants throughout the event.
September 23rd – Autumnal Equinox: Harvest Feast Potluck
Welcome the arrival of fall with a potluck that celebrates the bountiful harvest season. Encourage guests to bring dishes made with seasonal ingredients like apples, squash, pumpkins, and hearty root vegetables. Create a cozy autumn ambiance with warm-colored decorations and foliage-inspired centerpieces. Take a moment to appreciate the changing seasons and share favorite fall memories.
September 24th – Innergize Day: Energizing Eats Potluck
On Innergize Day, focus on rejuvenation and self-care by hosting a potluck that features energizing and nourishing dishes. Encourage guests to bring healthy options like salads, smoothies, or power bowls packed with nutritious ingredients. Share tips and strategies for self-care and engage in activities that promote physical and mental well-being.
September 25th – Comic Book Day: Superhero Supper Potluck
Channel your inner superhero on Comic Book Day by hosting a potluck inspired by comic book characters. Encourage guests to dress up as their favorite heroes or villains and bring dishes named after famous comic book characters or powers. Dishes could include Green Lantern cookies, Kung-Pow Chicken, and Hulk Smash Guacamole. Create a vibrant and colorful atmosphere with comic book-themed decorations and have fun discussing everyone’s favorite comic book moments.
September 26th – Serena Williams’ Birthday: Champion’s Feast Potluck
In honor of tennis legend Serena Williams, organize a potluck that embraces the vibrant colors of a tennis ball with yellow and green dishes. Encourage guests to bring creative dishes that feature these hues, such as lemon bars, key lime pie, pesto pasta salad, or pineapple salsa. This colorful potluck will not only pay tribute to Serena Williams but also create a visually striking spread that captures the energy of the tennis court. Share inspiring stories of Serena’s strength and resilience while enjoying a flavorful meal that reflects the spirit of the game.
September 27th – National Crush A Can Day: Recycled Refreshments Potluck
Celebrate sustainability on National Crush A Can Day by hosting a potluck that highlights the versatility of canned ingredients. Encourage guests to bring dishes that incorporate at least one ingredient from a can, such as a refreshing 7-Up cake, zesty canned chicken buffalo dip, or a hearty soup with canned veggies. This potluck will showcase the creative ways in which canned ingredients can be transformed into delicious and satisfying dishes.
September 28th – National Good Neighbor Day: Community Cookout Potluck
On National Good Neighbor Day, strengthen the bonds within your community by hosting a potluck that brings neighbors together. Encourage guests to bring their favorite dishes to share and create a friendly, inclusive atmosphere. Set up communal seating areas and facilitate conversation starters to encourage connections among neighbors. It’s a wonderful opportunity to build a stronger sense of community.
September 29th – National Coffee Day: Caffeine Fiesta Potluck
Fuel your day with a caffeine-filled potluck on National Coffee Day. Encourage guests to bring their favorite coffee-infused dishes, such as coffee-rubbed meats, espresso brownies, or tiramisu. Set up a coffee bar with different brews and toppings for guests to enjoy. Discuss interesting coffee facts and share stories about the role of coffee in your lives.
September 30th – National Ghost Hunting Day: Spooky Sustenance Potluck
On this thrilling day of ghost hunting, gather your friends for a spooky potluck. Encourage guests to bring dishes that are both delicious and ghost-themed, like “Ectoplasmic Enchiladas” or “Mummy Meatballs.” Share ghost stories and paranormal experiences while enjoying the eerie ambiance. It’s a potluck that’s sure to send shivers down your spine.
Fun Potluck Themes to do in September
In the month of September, potluck gatherings take on a whole new level of creativity and excitement with a variety of themed celebrations. From honoring iconic figures like Freddie Mercury and Mother Teresa to embracing the beauty of wildlife, literature, and even the versatile “&” symbol, September offers an array of engaging potluck themes.
Whether it’s exploring fusion cuisine, indulging in comfort foods, or showcasing the vibrant colors of tennis balls, each potluck theme brings people together, fosters conversations, and creates memorable experiences.
So, let the spirit of September inspire you to plan unique potluck gatherings, where friends, family, and colleagues can come together, share their culinary delights, and create lasting memories through the power of food and celebration.
