As the calendar rolls into the holiday season, it becomes difficult to ignore the festive cravings that proliferate in our stomachs. Thankfully, many are able to satiate these cravings with Thanksgiving, Christmas, Festivas, Diwali and other annual extravaganzas.

This year, however, it might be best to clear space Nov. 15 for a night of 16th-century opulence in honor of the bard himself, William Shakespeare.

The Shakespeare Festival of St. Louis, in its seventh successful year, is hosting popular food historian Francine Segan during “Aphrodisiacs,” a night of food, champagne and wit. The theme for the night is the aphrodisiacs that were contemporary with what Romeo, Juliet and various melancholy Danes might have eaten.

Segan, who wrote, Shakespeare’s Kitchen: Renaissance Recipes for the Contemporary Cook, will regale diners with the secrets about a vegetable that gave Henry the VIII his renowned stamina and the erotic origins of the champagne flute.

Jessica LaBozzetta, festival coordinator, wants students to know that they are a target audience for the unique evening.

“We see this as a great way to introduce students to our organization,” LaBozzetta said.

SFSTL’s main event is an annual production in Forest Park during the spring that draws crowds to see award-winning shows and is free to attend. They also run other events throughout the year including educational outreach camps for children.

The idea for “Aphrodisiacs” came when SFSTL booked Segan for a previous event and decided to do something more accessible to a younger audience. LaBozzetta said that the event is “a great way to hang out with friends before the Thanksgiving holiday.”

Of course, the distinctive food is also a big draw for those who eat most meals on campus. “Aphrodisiacs” will definitely be serving some classy dishes.

“I’m eager to try the popcorn with truffle oil; it’s something I have never heard of, but sounds really elegant and tasty. Not something you’d find at the movie theatre, I’m sure,” LaBozzetta said.

For those with ID there will be champagne toast as well as an open bar. Signed copies of Segen’s book will also be available.

Tickets for this event are $25 ($15 for ArtLink members) and are available from the festival office at 531-9800. Proceeds will benefit the festival’s year-round art and education programs.

More Information on the Shakespeare festival can be found at the group’s website at SFSTL.com.