More than 150 people helped kick off Valdosta Main Street’s week-long Downtown Valdosta Restaurant Week at the annual ‘Taste of Downtown’ event Monday, July 16.

The event that was started back in 2015, is held by Valdosta Main Street, Valdosta’s downtown development authority, and downtown restaurants such as Jessie’s Restaurant & Catering, Bleu Cafe, Bleu Pub, Steel Magnolias, Birdie’s Market, 306 North, Covington’s Dining & Catering and Nette’s Eatery.

Each of the Downtown restaurants set up tables at The Patterson and offered small bites, beer and wine for the cost of a $20 participation bracelet.

The event kicked off the week-long push to bring more people into the downtown area to shop and dine.

“Taste of Downtown is really such a fun event every year. People who haven’t ever been downtown are able to sample the best dishes from each restaurant,” said Ellen Hill, Main Street Director.

Within the first hour, at least one hundred wristbands were already sold. Many Downtown leaders and business owners hope that support and participation continue throughout the week.

“Downtown is the heart of our community. Shopping and dining local keeps money right here in the downtown area. This event helps restaurant owners generate new traffic into their businesses,” said Hill.

The rest of the week from Tuesday, July 17 through Saturday, July 21, Valdosta Main Street is encouraging people to ‘Try Something New’, the initiative requires no tickets, just get out and dine! Many restaurants will be featuring 3-course prix fixe menus.