Bringing a slow cooker with food to a party can be a great way to share a delicious dish with everyone. Whether you should take it with you when you leave, even if people are still eating, depends on the situation and the host's preferences. Here are some general guidelines to consider:
Check with the host: Before the party, it's a good idea to communicate with the host about whether they would like you to take the slow cooker with you when you leave or if they prefer to keep it until the end of the event.
Planned or Potluck Event: If the party is a planned event or a potluck where everyone brings a dish to share, it's common for guests to take their slow cookers and other containers with them when they leave. In such cases, it's courteous to pack up your slow cooker after most people have had a chance to enjoy the food.
Casual Gathering: For more casual gatherings, like a family get-together or a close-knit group of friends, the host might not mind keeping the slow cooker until everyone is done eating. In such cases, it's still polite to check with the host before you leave to ensure it's okay to take your slow cooker.
Consider the remaining food: If there's a significant amount of food left in the slow cooker, leaving it behind may be appreciated by the host, as they can continue to serve it to other guests or enjoy it later. On the other hand, if there's only a small amount of food left, taking the slow cooker with you could be more convenient.
Be prepared: Regardless of whether you plan to leave the slow cooker or take it with you, be sure to bring appropriate containers to transfer any leftover food. This way, you can pack up the food neatly and avoid spills during transportation.
In any case, always show gratitude to the host for inviting you and sharing the meal. If you're uncertain about what to do, don't hesitate to ask the host directly for their preference. Being considerate and communicative will help ensure a pleasant experience for everyone involved.