Tuck into some tasty fare produced by Metro Vancouver farmers and restaurants at the first annual Finger Food Festival in Port Coquitlam next week.
To close its eighth year at the Leigh Square Community Arts Village, the Port Coquitlam Farmers' Market will host the fundraiser in partnership with PoCo Heritage.
The Finger Food Fest, which takes place Friday, Sept. 30 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at the Wilson Centre (2150 Wilson Ave.), is expected to attract market shoppers as well as anyone "who loves local food and local community," market manager Aynsley Wong Meldrum said.
The $25 entrance fee includes a wide range of food and beverage samples — from Me 'n Ed's Pizza and Maria's Homestyle Perogies to sweets from Kizzy's Macaroons and drinks from Moody Ales.
Wong Meldrum said there will be enough tapas to make a meal for dinnertime.
"Our market-goers know the routine because they munch and sip their way through the market every week," she said, adding, "Little bites, great company and a couple of drinks make a perfect evening."
Market organizers teamed up with PoCo Heritage as it seemed a natural fit, she said.
Both are located in Leigh Square and both are volunteer driven. "There's this unique of old and new. The museum is in The Outlet, the old post office building…. And in the market, we love to capture it all: the art, music, the heritage displays and of course the food."
Proceeds raised from the tasting will be split between the two organizations for operations.
The festival will include a cash bar, a 50/50 draw and a silent auction. Door prizes will be available and entertainment will be provided by Todd Brown, a market performer.
The Finger Food Festival officially launches Culture Days in Port Coquitlam.
• To purchase tickets in advance (none will be sold at the door), visit Vancity at Shaughnessy Square, PoCo Heritage in The Outlet or Thursday's market at Leigh Square. Alternatively, visit eventbrite.ca.
