Test Drive…with Taste Festival

Test-Drive-with-TasteA fabulous food, beer and wine festival. The downtown's most acclaimed chef's gather in the stunning venue of Central Park Plaza to present the premier of all new signature dishes. Sample the downtown's finest Craft Beer and the Wine offerings. Celebrate Right with host Griegers Motors and nine of Valpo's downtown restaurants for an innovative festival of live music, food and hot cars.

According to don Quijote's Carlos Rivero, "Test Drive with Taste is a celebration of Valpo culture. It's the summer's most anticipated and exciting festival....and as unique as our city. Visitors will have an opportunity to become better acquainted with our unique cuisine, wine and craft beer offerings. In the tradition of fresh and innovation....each restaurant will create a new dish that will make its debut at the festival. Indiana Beverage is planning the premier of several new and exciting craft beers while wine connoisseurs will delight in an opportunity to taste test the downtown's unique wine offerings. The festival will also have an auto show with World War II Jeeps, tanks and some of America's hottest cars and trucks. Test Drives will be available, provided visitors don't indulge in craft beer and wine testing first," said Rivero. "It is a wonderful opportunity for people to become acquainted with Valpo's unique culture."

The festival will kick off at 12:00 with the premier of all new signature dishes, craft beers, wine tasting and automotive test drives. At 4:00, a special 90th Birthday tribute to Bill Wellman will feature live performances, including a tribute set by Jon Costas and the comical music styling's of Keith Gurley. A birthday cake for Wellman will culminate his celebration.

The main attraction is from 5:00-9:00 and features a free concert featuring the Acoustacats.

Test Drive with Taste delivers a delicious snapshot of the Valparaiso cultural scene. The festival will be captured on film and be part of an independent film about Valparaiso.

Participating restaurants include: Don Quijote, Bon Femme, Valley, Valpo Velvet, Margaritas, Tommy B's, Silver Spoon, Pikk's, and Lincoln & Main with Griegers serving as host.