Changes coming to The Great Taste of the Grove

The 21st Annual Great Taste of the Grove is April 16 and 17. The Chamber's signature event has been revamped this year. For one thing, they changed the dates from January to April, you may remember last year's event in January 2010 was frozen out, literally. The temps were in the 40s and there was a cold rain both days. That's Gigi and me all bundled up at the rum booth last year.

The two day food, wine and music festival will feature various new attractions this year including, "Sommelier Wine Tasting Grove," "Connoisseur Spirits Loung" and a kids' "Adventure Park." There's a fashion show and the "Palate Culinary Pavilian," which will include a full scale dining area with cooking demonsrations by local celebrity chefs. How to make the newest cocktails will be demonstrated, too.

Live entertainment and culinary delights will fill both days in Peacock Park. Tickets for food and drink range from $1 to $8 each. Admission to The Great Taste is complimenatry.

"Beans & Blends Coffee House" will feature coffees from around the world with newsstand/coffee shop feel for you to enjoy a cup while browsing the publications on hand. Tekboard will be introduced, an all-in-one touch-screen, interactive multimedia unit. These unitsallow guests to view participating businesses, menus, sponsor logos, websites and to stream the event live over the internet.

The Great Taste is 11 am to 7 pm both days. Over 30,000 people have come in the past to enjoy what the Grove has to offer.