Taste of St. Croix, 2018 in Downtown Christiansted By. ERNICE GILBERT/VI CONSORTIUM
ST. CROIX — Taste of St. Croix is gearing up to launch its 20-year celebration on April 2, the organization has made known. The 2020 culinary tasting event will be returning to the historic town of Christiansted with over 50 local chefs, restaurants, farmers, caterers, brewers, distillers, wineries and more lining the streets offering tastes and sips to patrons.
According to a release Taste of St. Croix issued, purveyors will be showcasing the diverse and delectable cuisine and culture of St. Croix with its influences from all over the Caribbean and the world. Proceeds support many great local programs that promote the island's hospitality industry and youth education in the culinary arts year-round.
Tickets are $95 per person and $150 for a VIP ticket. Learn more about the grand 20-year celebration at http://www.tasteofstcroix.com/.
The Taste of St. Croix said it is committed to sharing the distinct culinary scene of St. Croix and the Virgin Islands. Initially, Taste of St. Croix was a way to connect St. Croix's chefs, farmers, fishermen and other purveyors in a celebration of island's culinary diversity. However, the event has evolved from a one-night affair to a week full of "feastivities" that raise funds, awareness and provide entertaining and educational opportunities. As a nonprofit organization, Taste of St. Croix says it is dedicated to the cultivation and expansion of the "seeds of opportunity" for the overall growth of the Virgin Islands.
The organization said it has donated more than $400,000 to community programs and local organizations since its inception in 2001. Last year's event saw more than 200 off-island visitors, introducing St. Croix's cuisine to a world stage. Closing out last year's event, Taste of St. Croix was able to donate $10,000 to the Lighthouse Mission, $5,000 to the Women's Coalition, $1,800 contribution to the Local Farmers' Market Coupon/Grant Program (in collaboration with the V.I. Department of Agriculture), $8,800 contribution to the Restaurants Grant Program, and smaller donations and grants of $500 or less, the release said.
Held annually, the Taste Winners' Cook-Off brings winners from Taste of St. Croix, together for a professional 'winners' cook-off, Iron Chef style. Last year's winner received an all-expense paid weekend to attend A Taste of two Islands in St. Thomas.
Taste of St. Croix is known nationally and abroad as one of the finest food and wine events in the Caribbean, and continues to attract thousands of guests including international winemakers, rum distillers, beer brewers, and celebrity chefs.
The 20th Anniversary of Taste of St. Croix is sponsored b the Office of the Governor, the Department of Tourism and other supporting sponsors.
