New Taste of Benton County Event Seeking Food and Drink Vendors

(KNSI) – A new community event is coming to Benton County this summer, and organizers are now looking for local food and drink businesses to take part, with a deadline just days away for those hoping to skip paying a fee.

Benton Economic Partnership, Inc. is hosting the first-ever Taste of Benton County on Wednesday, July 22nd, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Sauk Rapids Sports Arena East. The fundraiser is designed to showcase and promote restaurants, bars, bakeries, and caterers from across the region while giving attendees a chance to sample what local businesses have to offer.

Amanda Othoudt, Executive Director of Benton Economic Partnership, Inc., says they expect between 300 and 500 people to turn out for the inaugural event. “Not only is this a valuable fundraising opportunity for our organization, but it’s a fun way to promote local businesses and introduce residents to new spots.”

The 21+ event will feature unlimited tastings from participating vendors, along with live music, raffles, and other activities. General admission tickets are $40.

Organizers have space for up to 30 vendors, and they are offering some early incentives to fill those spots. The first 12 vendors to sign on will receive a $200 stipend, and membership fees will be waived for businesses that sign up by May 30th.

After the May 30th deadline, registration remains free for current members of Benton Economic Partnership, Inc., while non-members will need to pay an annual membership fee that varies based on the number of employees.

Five percent of the proceeds from the event will be donated to a local non-profit that is a member of the organization.

Vendors interested in applying can submit a completed application to Pam Vizenor at pvizenor@bentonpartnership.org.

More information is available by clicking here.

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