The sixth annual Taste of Fort Macleod has a new venue.
Taste of Fort Macleod starts at 5:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 6 at the Fort Macleod and District Sports Centre.
With inclement weather forecast for the end of the week, Chamber of Commerce event organizers decided Wednesday morning to move the event indoors.
Taste of Fort Macleod was originally scheduled to be held at The Fort — Museum of the North West Mounted Police.
Restaurants, a brewery and a bakery are just some of the vendors confirmed for Taste of Fort Macleod.
The list of vendors is growing every day, Fort Macleod Chamber of Commerce business co-ordinator and liaison Ashley Nelson said last week.
“There were 18 vendors who participated last year, and it’s looking likely that we will have that or more this year,” Nelson said. “Exhibitors considering participating should get in touch with me as soon as possible. It’s a fun way for them to market their businesses and show off what they have to offer.”
Taste of Fort Macleod is a showcase of local food and drink. Food vendors will have available samples from their menus.
“I heard community members talking about this event for weeks afterward last year,” Nelson said. “It’s always such a good time with great food, live entertainment by the Dusty Road Band, and fun mingling with neighbours and friends.”
Confirmed vendors this year include Stronghold Brewering Co., Homestead Bakeshop, M&A Catering, Stockman’s Grill, Mocha Cabana, Mocha Local, Kodiak Smoked Salmon, Top Shelf Liquor, My Oma Always Canning Co. and Italian Table by Prime Catering.
Nelson said the Taste of Fort Macleod menu will likely include slider burgers, prime rib, mini Oreos, a Thai peanut and quinoa salad, smoked salmon, craft beer and wine.
Companies participating in the annual cook-off this year are Structural Truss/Forma Steel, Avail CPA, AIM Seed, Next Home and Garden and LF Truck Centre/MNP.
Cook-off judges this year are Lethbridge College culinary chef Ken Kain, Kiss 107.7 promotions director Christy Ross and Foothills MP John Barlow.
Guests at Taste of Fort Macleod vote on the People’s Choice Awards in the cook-off and among the exhibitors.
Last year the Chamber sold all 350 tickets for Taste of Fort Macleod, so more will be available in 2019.
Tickets remain $25 apiece and include admission to the museum and 20 tasting coupons.
“I would encourage people to get their tickets early,” Nelson said. “Though we did increase the number of tickets available, I can’t guarantee there will be any available that night at the door.”
Tickets are available at Cafe Orange or at the Chamber office. Nelson will also sell tickets at Market On Main.
The Chamber also requires sponsors to help cover the costs of staging Taste of Fort Macleod.
To participate as a sponsor, vendor or barbecue cook-off participant, contact Ashley Nelson at 403-715-2125 or fmchamber1888@gmail.com.