Whereas in the last few years the annual food frenzy event Taste of Durango had to contend with erratic weather and hailstorms, this year it was all blue skies and sunshine, and the crowds came with it.
“It’s one of the biggest events I’ve ever seen,” said Beau Black, vice president of the Durango chapter of the Colorado Restaurant Association. “It’s been really good for us.”
On Sunday, the culinary fest featured live music, street performers, Henna tattoos and most importantly, food from Durango’s eateries.
From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., more than 90 vendors dished out their finest foods and craft brews in high demand, with long lines to prove it.
“The lines are a little tough but everyone understands that and is willing to wait,” Black said.
One new feature that helped some participants’ pass their time while waiting in line were the musicians positioned at the end of every block on Main Avenue. In years past, the event only had one main stage with one performer at a time.
“You can tell everyone’s enjoying that new aspect with the music,” Black said.
Access to the event is free, but tokens purchased at $1 each are exchanged for food and drinks.
Half the profits from token sales benefit five Durango groups: Durango DEVO, Music in the Mountains, Adaptive Sports Association, SASO – Sexual Assault Services Organization and the Young Professionals of Durango.
Black said the amount donated to these groups will not be known until Monday morning.
Last year, Manna Soup Kitchen, the sole beneficiary, received $14,000.
