Get set for Summerfest, a free downtown event that will appeal to the foody in all of us, promises co-ordinator Heidi Martel.
A Taste Pavillion will set this festival apart from other events in Prince George with more than a dozen downtown restaurants offering tasty treats under a series of tents along Seventh Avenue on Sunday, Aug. 21.
Activities will take place at the Civic Centre, on Quebec Street and along Fifth, Sixth and Seventh Avenue.
It's been five years since the last Summerfest. The Prince George Citizen is title sponsor of this comeback event and has partnered with the Downtown Business Improvement Association and other sponsors to give the residents a reason to come downtown Prince George.
"The DBIA board thought it was very important for people to enjoy a fun event in the downtown core," said Martel.
A sneak peek sponsor tasting last Wednesday allowed Summerfest supporters to review the culinary delights participating downtown restaurants have to offer - among treats offered were pulled pork, samosas, seafood jambalaya, death by chocolate and rum and coke baby back pork ribs.
Christopher Angus, executive chef and owner of Twisted Cork, wouldn't give away all his secrets, but said he slow cooks the Rum and Coke ribs for three hours.
"Rum and Coke are two of the ingredients but the rest you'll just have to taste," said Angus.
Restaurant owners believe it's really important to reach out to the community by participating in the Summerfest Taste Pavilion.
"Everything we do is based on relationships in the community and it's important to support the people of Prince George," said Tom Sentes, owner of North 54 and Cimo Mediterranean Grill.
Eoin Foley, co-owner of Nancy O's with Garrett Fedorkiw, said it's a no brainer to be active in the community and participate in the Taste Pavilion.
"This gives people the chance to taste what we have to offer and hopefully get our name out there to those who are not familiar with us," said Foley.
Festival goers will be able to purchase tickets at the Pavilion for $1 each and each food item available will cost no more than $5.
Since it's a tapas type of format , people will be able to enjoy several samples at a fraction of the cost of a full meal.
Other Summerfest highlights include children's activities, including mini rail and fish pond, Artistans Alley, and a full day of entertainment on the Main Stage where several local performers will showcase their talent.
