Under a bright July sky, more than 100 residents gathered Saturday at the West Pond Lily estate for the return of the Gallatin Town Picnic—an afternoon of burgers, live music, and neighborly connection.
Hosted by Manon and Ian Slome, the event marked the first picnic since the pandemic and featured music by The Original Quinn Brothers, meats from Fat Apple Farm, and a sprawling buffet of homemade sides and desserts.
The tradition began in 2016 as a unifying gesture from the Gallatin Residents’ Association. “Gallatin doesn’t have a social center,” recalled former GRA president Tim McHenry. “No opportunity for coalescing.” Early editions of the picnic included piglet chases, creek boat races, and a graveyard scavenger hunt.
“It’s the chance to meet neighbors,” said Ohad, a young guest in a Yankees cap. Later, his friend Levi eyed the dessert table. “Maybe a quarter of the table,” he added when asked how much he could eat.
This year’s installment was more laid-back but no less festive. Guests lingered by cornhole and croquet games, sipped drinks in the barn, and lined up for hot dogs, burgers, and venison grilled on site.
Dan Quinn, who is stepping down from the town board this year, played keyboards alongside two of his brothers. “Our dad was a cop,” he said. “But we all became school teachers. And music has always been my love.”
GRA president Tara Silberberg, who plans to run for town board this fall, thanked the hosts and volunteers. “I am my truest, happiest self here,” she said. “And I’m so glad I live in Gallatin.”
Town Supervisor John Reilly closed the evening with a nod to what makes the gathering matter. “Enjoy the music. Enjoy the food. Enjoy the company—that’s what makes Gallatin a ‘great little town.’”
