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Taste of Cleveland

By Sandy Mitchell, About.com

(courtesy of Belkin Media)
The "Taste of Cleveland" festival is a Northeast Ohio Labor Day tradition. Begun in 1995, the downtown event features food samples from 30 area restaurants, diners, cafes, and bistros as well as Ohio wine and beer tastes. There's also live music, kid's activities, and lots of fun. The event is held at the Time-Warner Cable Amphitheater; the 2009 dates are September 4-7.

The Food:

The Taste of Cleveland traditionally features food samples from around 30 area restaurants, bistros, diners, and cafes. 2008 participants included Hot Sauce Williams, Claddagh Irish Pubs, Mardi Gras, The Willoughby Brewing Company, Chagrin Falls Popcorn House, and Das Schnitzel House.

The Music:

One of the highlights of the Taste of Cleveland is the several live concerts, all included in the one admission price. The 2008 entertainment schedule included Michael Stanley and the Resonators, Big Head Todd and the Monsters, Los Lonely Boys, and Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes.

Other Activities:

The Taste of Cleveland always offers a wide variety of events, in addition to the food and drink, such as culinary demonstrations, kids activities, and multi-cultural dance, music, and other performances.

Hours and Admission:

Admission to the Taste of Cleveland (2008 pricing) is $7; children under 12 are admitted free. Admission includes entertainment.

Taste of Cleveland will be open Friday from 11am to 11pm; Saturday and Sunday from noon to 11pm; and on Monday from noon to 8pm.

Discounts for Taste of Cleveland:

A $2 discount coupon is available by clicking here. You will also receive a $2 discount off of an adult admission (not combinable with the coupon) by showing your Giant Eagle Advantage Card. Everyone is admitted free on Friday from 11am to 4pm.

Hotels Near the Taste of Cleveland:

Good hotel choices include the Cleveland Renaissance Hotel (check rates) and the Ritz Carlton Hotel (check rates), both within an easy walk of the venue. Less expensive choice can be found at short drive away in the Rockside Road corridor.

Parking:

Parking is available at the Avenue at Tower City lot and other area parking facilities.

(updated 5-27-09)

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