<p>We have been invited for the New Year dinner. What to expect? What to bring for the host/hostess?</p>
<p>A big, happy meal. Some prayers at the start if they are religious, more after if they are very religious. If they aren’t very observant it might just be a nice meal. Foods to do with apples and honey are in for the holiday. You can always bring a bottle of wine or a nice vase or plate or flowers. </p>
<p>Normally before the meal, there will be blessings over wine, a special round challah, and apples. The apple and challah are dipped in honey for a sweet new year. Traditionally the meal itself will also be sweet and often includes carrots. Unless you know that the hosts do not keep kosher, it’s probably best to avoid bringing food and wine. A bouquet of fall flowers would be appropriate.</p>
<p>If you bring flowers, try to arrange it in a vase ahead of time. When I get flowers as a hostess, I’m usually running in 12 different directions, so having them arranged & cut ahead of time makes my job a whole lot easier.</p>
<p>For Rosh Hashana one year, I was given a small bag of apples from a local farm with a small jar of honey—very appreciated and welcomed. Also, honey cake or any types of cake or cookies are appropriate. I know this sounds wierd, but even Apple cider is appreciated…kosher wine is very accepatable…easy to find at any liquor store…even buying a few round challahs, one with raisins and one without are also useful since people go through them quickly…
apples with honey as I said, or even a challah with honey is great. Or maybe just some paper napkins with the family initial could be nice…or a small Fall plant…</p>
<p>Thanks, all. My hostess is a gardener so a plant or flowers is a great suggestion. (I’m with you on the flowers chocchip; that has happened to me many times.) If DH wants to bring wine` red or white? (They are not religious.) </p>
<p>I’d bring kosher wine even if they’re not religious. Some folks prefer to use it for holidays. Red or white doesn’t matter. There are some decent kosher wines in a reasonable price range these days.</p>
<p>I also note it’s a tradition to give honey because it’s a wish for others. </p>
<p>@1moremom - so how as it?</p>
<p>So much wonderful food and such great friends. Only sorry I forgot my kugel doggie bag.
Shanah Tovah :)</p>