Sample cuisine from some of Cobb County’s best restaurants at the 30th annual Taste of Marietta, taking place April 27, 11 a.m.-7 p.m., on the Marietta Square. More than 50,000 people are expected to attend the family-friendly event, which is the county’s largest and longest-running food festival.
Activities include samples from 60+ restaurants (“tastes” from $2-$10), chef demonstrations, a kids’ zone, beer garden, live music and vendors. New this year are the Publix VIP Lounge — featuring live acoustic music, private bathrooms, hors d'oeuvres, an open bar and air conditioning for $89 — and the Georgia Grown Member Village, a showcase of vendors offering goods that are handmade, grown or produced exclusively in Georgia.
Proceeds benefit Visit Marietta, a nonprofit organization dedicated to encouraging tourism by highlighting the city’s unique attractions and culture.
Gina Duncan, Visit Marietta’s marketing and public relations manager, shares the popular festival’s evolution.
How did the event get started?
Thirty years ago, Theresa Jenkins, the former director of Visit Marietta, started Taste of Marietta. As a visionary leader, Theresa saw an opportunity to showcase Marietta’s culinary diversity and community spirit through this event. It was her passion and dedication that laid the foundation for what would become one of Marietta’s most beloved traditions. It was the largest event organized entirely by Visit Marietta, reflecting its commitment to promoting Marietta as a destination for both residents and visitors alike. Taste of Marietta became not only a showcase of culinary delights but also a celebration of Marietta’s rich heritage and sense of community.
Why do you think it’s so popular?
The annual tradition of Taste of Marietta holds a special place in the hearts of the Marietta community for several reasons. First, it serves as a way to bring together residents, visitors and local businesses in a celebration of food, culture and community spirit.
Additionally, it showcases the rich diversity of culinary offerings within Marietta. From traditional Southern cuisine to international flavors, the event highlights the melting pot of cultures and culinary talents that make Marietta such a dynamic and vibrant community.
Taste of Marietta also fosters a sense of support for local businesses, providing them with a platform to showcase their offerings and connect with potential customers. This not only boosts the local economy but also strengthens the sense of community.
Lastly, the event creates lasting memories for attendees, whether it's discovering a new favorite dish, enjoying live music performances or simply relishing in the warm and welcoming atmosphere of Marietta Square.
What restaurants will be there?
Restaurants are still registering, (but) these are definitely in: Carrabba's, Zama Mexican Cuisine, Sugar Shane's Gourmet Bakery, Taco Del Chavo. In the past, we have had most of the restaurants on the Marietta Square participating, and here are a few that I am sure will be in again: Dave Poe's BBQ, Copelands, the Melt Yard, Press Waffle Co., Williamson Brothers BBQ.
Information: 770-423-1330, https://www.tasteofmarietta.com/
Taste of Marietta became not only a showcase of culinary delights but also a celebration of Marietta’s rich heritage and sense of community.