Food, music and community celebration will take center stage in downtown Madison later this month as Main Street Madison hosts its “Taste of Downtown” block party.
The free event is scheduled for May 16 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will feature live music, family-friendly activities and a spotlight on some of the district’s most popular restaurants.
Local musician Josh Allison will perform from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., followed by a DJ set from State Rep. Phillip Rigsby from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Attendees will also have the option to purchase a $30 tasting ticket, which includes samples from five downtown restaurants: Old Black Bear, Zanotta’s, Vine & Oak, Main Street Cafe and Lanier House. Participants can visit each location throughout the event to collect their selections.
Main Street Madison Executive Director Jen DeLessio said the event is designed to highlight the businesses that make up the downtown district.
“What makes this downtown event so unique is that our district businesses are providing the food,” DeLessio said. “We want to spotlight all our restaurants — from charcuterie at Vine & Oak to desserts at Lanier House.”
DeLessio noted that the tasting format allows attendees to explore downtown at their own pace.
“For an optional $30 ticket you can get ‘tastes’ from each of our five restaurants — grabbing each bite whenever you would like throughout the day,” she said.
She also encouraged visitors to take advantage of Madison’s designated entertainment district, which allows patrons to purchase beverages in approved containers and carry them throughout the area.
“Don’t forget you can purchase your favorite beverage in a green cup to sit, sip, shop or stroll around — not just at this event but any day as we are now an entertainment district,” DeLessio said.
In addition to food and entertainment, the event will include activities for children and a special recognition of State Sen. Tom Butler. Organizers said Butler will be honored for his decades of legislative service and his role in supporting the growth and revitalization of downtown Madison.
The block party is expected to draw residents and visitors alike as downtown continues to build momentum as a destination for dining, shopping and community events.
