Emerald Queen Casino’s Taste of Tacoma® presented by BECU is the “Ultimate Summer Get Together” featuring over 40+ restaurants & vendors, 50+ hand craft & commercial goods vendors, live music and entertainment on 4 stages, local chefs performing live cooking demonstrations & mystery ingredient cook-offs at The Taste Cooks! stage, all-new South Sound Bites local restaurant showcase with support for the Emergency Food Network, the Rose Garden which includes The Wine Bar and the Craft Beer Tasting, beer gardens featuring local beers and craft spirits, the Family Fun Zone including an entertainment stage and rides and games from the Funtastic Carnival and more!
WHEN IS THE TASTE?
Friday, June 23 & Saturday, June 24: 11am – 9pm
Sunday, June 25: 11am – 8pm (closes at 7pm)
It’s FREE to attend to The Taste
HOW DO I GET THERE? WHERE DO I PARK?
Because of ongoing park improvements & construction around Point Defiance Park, there will be no parking on site and guests will not be able to drive up directly to the park as traffic will be diverted off of Pearl Street starting at 51st Ave. The Taste of Tacoma® has taken steps to ensure easy and affordable options, and strongly encourages guests to take the suggested parking and transportation options, including the FREE Taste Express operated by Pierce Transit from TCC- Park FREE & Ride FREE!
The Taste Express operated by Pierce Transit is a FREE to Park and FREE to ride option at Tacoma Community College, located at S. 19th Street and S. Mildred Street. You can take the Express Bus Service to and from the park for free. (TCC street address: 6501 South 19th Street, Tacoma, WA 98466 – Look for signs for Taste Express!). Head to the Getting There section online for more details and for other travel options.
Can I bring my pet? We love your pets but… there is a no-pet policy within the main food court area of the Taste. While pets are allowed in other parts of the park, guests are encouraged to leave their pets at home due to the large crowds and for the health and safety of both your pets and the public.
What kind of food will The Taste be serving up? EVERY KIND! (Or, as my mom would say- GOOD FOOD!). Each restaurant will serve a variety of items from Ethnic cuisine to all American favorites. Check out our Dining section online for all the menu items.
HOW MUCH DOES THE FOOD COST?
All main restaurant food items and combo plates will be $10 or under! Check out our Dining section for more. For a sampler of mini entrees from 5 local restaurants on one plate for just $16, try the ALL-NEW South Sound Bites! This new area is in support of the Emergency Food Network. The menu and restaurants rotate through the weekend and is subject to change, but currently scheduled restaurants include: The Table, Stanley & Seafort’s, Miyabi Sushi, Blazing Onion, La Waffletz, Casco Antiguo Tacoma, The Social Bar & Grill, Paesan Kitchen & Bar, and The Tattered Apron Bakery.
New this year, various types of Point Defiance gear will be available for purchase. From hoodies to beanies to T-shirts, there is something for everyone. Also new this year, grab a Point Defiance Junior Ranger Program activity booklet. Completing 6 pages and reciting the Junior Ranger Pledge will earn a Junior Ranger pin. For more adventure, grab a ‘That’s the Point’ field guide and collect codes from hidden signs throughout the park. Collect all the codes and receive coupons and prizes.
Have more questions? Call (425)295-3262 or email info@festivals-inc.com.
– Festivals, Inc.
