Susan T. Anderson, special events director for Community Residences, said that 20th annual Taste of Arlington event this Sunday "is pretty much the same" as other recent installments.
Then again, why mess with success?
The annual celebration of food, drink and song in Ballston attracts large crowds in support of the non-profit Community Residences (CR), which provides services and support to disabled residents in Arlington. CR claims it has close to 30 programs that help over 1,100 people.
There is no admission charge for the event, which runs from noon until 5 p.m. on Sunday, May 20, but tickets need to be purchased in order to sample food and beverages throughout the event. Ticketbooks can be purchased on the day of the event for $25 each; the books contain six "tastes," as food, soda and water all cost one "taste" while beer and wine cost two "tastes." The event is for all ages, but guests must be 21-or-older to purchase beer or wine. Tickets will be available until 3:30 p.m.
THE EVENT, which takes place around Wilson Boulevard, will again feature an array of local restaurants offering dishes. New this year to the mix are El Ranchero Mexican Restaurant and Vapiano.
The entertainment for this year's Taste of Arlington brings together celebrity and musicianship.
The event kicks off with the Spanish Children's Chorus at noon, followed by the Levine School of Music Youth Orchestra from 12:45 - 1:15 p.m.; Anderson said the D.C.-based Levine School was a hit last year.
Former Washington Redskins and current Comcast SportsNet personality Rick "Doc" Walker will take center stage from 1:15 - 2:15 p.m., giving away some sports-related prizes. Local favorites Radio Mosaic (2:15-3 p.m.) and Bobby T & the Magic Voyagers (3:15 - 4 p.m.) will also perform. The Taylor Carson Band is the headliner, closing out the Taste at 4:15 p.m.
Also, chefs from the Art Institute of Washington will be appearing at the event. "They are going to be doing some chef demos," said Anderson.
In addition to the food and music, jewelry and crafts created by those who utilize Community Residences' services will be on sale, with profits going back into CR's programs.
Visit www.tasteofarlington.com for full schedules, children's activities and more information.