Can you share your perspective on the significance of "TASTE Leesburg" for the town's culture and community spirit, especially given the remarkable attendance of 8,000-9,000 people this year?
A: Taste Leesburg has become part of the fabric of Leesburg. It is an opportunity for the Town to show off its businesses to visitors new to the Town while still attracting the residents to come downtown and enjoy the food trucks, the history tours, the crafters, and brick and mortar businesses. – Mayor Kelly Burk
Beyond just food and beverage, what do you feel are the most important ways this event brings the community together?
A: "This event is an opportunity to invite people to enjoy all that Leesburg has to offer, from history and architecture to entertainment and music, to great dining. This event offers the chance to meet new people from outside of the area or to hang out with neighborhood friends." – Mayor Kelly Burk
This year's event featured 33 food vendors, with 8 of them being from Leesburg, and 22 beverage vendors, with 2 being from Leesburg. How does the town's strategy for the event balance bringing in a wide variety of vendors with highlighting our own local culinary talent?
A: Our goal is always to put on an event that makes Leesburg residents and businesses proud. We love to involve many of these local businesses when possible and use the event to showcase the downtown Leesburg scene. We love to see our brick-and-mortar spots filling up with TASTE attendees. – Parks & Recreation Events Manager Billy Moffett
We saw other local businesses and nonprofits like Seven Teahouse and Providence Academy participate. Can you speak to the town's effort to include a variety of local businesses beyond just food and beverages?
A: At TASTE Leesburg we strive to bring in all vendors who are food and drink focused. From a great snack or thirst-quenching drink to a fun or tasty culinary gift, we hope to have something for everyone. We offer a limited number of spaces to nonprofit organizations that serve the Leesburg community and feature our sponsors. – Parks & Recreation Events Manager Billy Moffett
A major highlight this year was the celebration of the 200th anniversary of the Marquis de Lafayette's historic visit. How did the town government, in partnership with other organizations, work to bring this historic moment to life for attendees?
In August 1825, the Marquis de Lafayette, hero of the American Revolution, visited Leesburg during his grand tour of the United States, where thousands gathered at the Loudoun County Courthouse to welcome him. Two hundred years later, on August 9, 2025, the Town of Leesburg, in partnership with the Loudoun VA250 committee and numerous community organizations, brought this history to life through a series of commemorative events. The celebration centered on TASTE Leesburg, where attendees enjoyed a dramatic courthouse reenactment and the exciting appearance of noted living-history interpreter Mark Schneider portraying Marquis de Lafayette, accompanied by Jay Harrison as President James Monroe. Together, these elements gave festivalgoers a vivid sense of what it was like to welcome Lafayette two centuries ago. This collaboration brought together Town staff, including Parks & Recreation Events staff who coordinated the TASTE Leesburg appearance, Thomas Balch Library staff, the Economic Development Department, and the Town Manager’s Office, alongside members of the Loudoun VA250 Committee, the Virginia Piedmont Heritage Area Association, the Loudoun Museum, and national partners like the American Friends of Lafayette. The result was a successful partnership that blended history, community spirit, and celebration—making Lafayette’s return to Leesburg as unforgettable in 2025 as it was in 1825. – Thomas Balch Library Director Laura Christiansen
The event featured performers like the JunkFood Band and Lafayette, along with a special ceremony. How does incorporating these cultural and historical elements enhance the overall "Taste Leesburg" experience for both residents and visitors?
A: Recognizing the 200th anniversary (to the day) of Lafayette’s visit to Leesburg was a unique opportunity to shine a spotlight on our past while celebrating community in the present. – Parks & Recreation Events Manager Billy Moffett
The event is a snapshot of our town's culinary scene. Beyond the numbers, what story do you hope the food and beverage vendors are telling about Leesburg's identity as a foodie destination?
A: From its beginnings, we’ve wanted TASTE Leesburg to create awareness and excitement to Leesburg’s food and drink offerings by bringing out attendees from across the region and locals alike. We’re proud to show off all the premium, fun, and innovative bars and restaurants the Town has to offer. – Parks & Recreation Events Manager Billy Moffett
Finally, as Mayor, what is your personal message to both the residents and visitors who look forward to this event and its continued growth?
A: "I am delighted to welcome visitors and residents to the historic downtown. Keep coming every year as we grow this event and make it even better next year. Leesburg is a place of history while being a fun place to come and enjoy. You are always welcome in Leesburg." – Mayor Kelly Burk