Taste of the Finger Lakes, which will make its debut June 16 in Ithaca, aims to be both the region's premier food and drink event and a fundraiser to support local organizations working to end hunger and sustain healthy communities.
This new event comes on the heels of Taste of the Nation, which has come to an official end in Ithaca after its final occurrence in June of 2019.
“We congratulate the Ithaca community on a very successful 30 years of Taste of the Nation and appreciate the years of dedication shown by attendees, supporters, and volunteers,” said Jessie Niewold, director of Taste of the Nation. “While the event will not be returning in 2020, the work of the No Kid Hungry campaign will continue in Central New York and surrounding communities to ensure every child has access to the food they need.”
Taste of the Finger Lakes will take place the evening of Tuesday, June 16, at Ithaca College’s A&E Center and will host over 80 local food vendors, wineries, breweries, distilleries, and cideries. The event will kick off with a VIP reception, which includes a champagne toast and music by The Caribe Jazz Duo, followed by the main event, which will feature music by The Destination.
Under new leadership, Taste of the Finger Lakes will ensure that 100 percent of its proceeds stay local. This year's recipients will include the Food Bank of the Southern Tier (with a special focus on the BackPack Program), Healthy Food For All, and The Youth Farm Project.
“We continue to support and applaud No Kid Hungry for their work to end childhood hunger in New York and across America," said Jerry Dietz, former Taste of the Nation committee chair. "And, I am pleased that we have a local committee who are leading a brand new event, Taste of the Finger Lakes, with a focus on confronting broader hunger issues right here in our immediate communities."
Tickets will go on sale April 1. For more information, or if you’d like to learn how to get involved, visit the event website or email tasteofthefingerlakes@gmail.com.