2019 Taste of Hudson event canceled; Board to review options for fundraising initiatives in 2020 and beyond

The Taste of Hudson, the annual fundraising event traditionally held over Labor Day weekend, will not occur in 2019.

According to a press release from organizers, the Board of Directors for the Taste of Hudson Inc. made this difficult decision after evaluating the feasibility of producing the large-scale event, which has drawn more than 20,000 people to downtown Hudson each year.

“The ever-changing event landscape in Hudson and Northeast Ohio, partnered with the dilution of sponsorship dollars, increased expenses and the uncertainty of the festival grounds based on proposed construction projects in the festival area were several of the deciding factors that led us to this path,” said Debra Sherman, Taste of Hudson executive director.

“I support the Taste of Hudson board and beam members in reaching this difficult decision. We hold the door open to future fundraising events as we continue to assess the environment for such a well-regarded community event,” said Bob Liskiewicz, Taste of Hudson president.

The Taste of Hudson has supported more than 25 local nonprofit organizations over the past 13 years, donating more than $400,000 back into the community. An integral part of the annual event landscape, the Taste of Hudson celebrates the community and its culinary talents while furthering the philanthropic nature of Hudson.

“The past two years of record grant distribution were extremely meaningful and we recognize this decision may come as a disappointment to our partners and the community. However, we want to be sure every event we produce meets the high standards we have strived for since our reintroduction in 2017,” added Sherman. “We appreciate the sponsors, restaurants, business partners, and many volunteers that have been a part of the Taste and allowed us to showcase our fine city to residents and visitors alike.”

Established in 2005, A Taste of Hudson Inc. is a nonprofit organization. The release said the organization will remain active and continue to work with community organizations and partners for the betterment of the Hudson community and explore fundraising alternatives for 2020 and beyond.

Updates on plans for the future will be posted on Facebook as well as the Taste of Hudson website at tasteofhudson.com as they are available.

Featured image photo caption: Patrons sample one of the culinary offerings at the 2017 Taste of Hudson. The community food festival has been canceled for 2019 with no details on its future. Photo courtesy of the Taste of Hudson