CHENANGO COUNTY – The fourth annual Taste of Chenango Music & Food festival returns to the Chenango County Fairgrounds this Saturday, July 25, for an afternoon of food, music, and community celebration.

Presented by Chenango County Tourism and sponsored by local businesses, Sidney Federal Credit Union, and Kerry Bioscience, the event aims to provide a space for people to explore what we have here in Chenango County.

“This is really a celebration of our community. It's a celebration for all things from Chenango County for all people in Chenango County,” said Sal Testani President and CEO of Commerce Chenango.

The festival will feature dozens of local vendors offering locally made foods, goods, and products. This year's entertainment lineup features two well known local acts: Khalil Jade, an acoustic performer who has appeared at past Taste of Chenango festivals, and Woodshed prophets, a regionally popular band with a strong following across the Catskills, Cooperstown, and the Finger Lakes.

The event runs from 1 to 6 p.m. and admission to the festival is free. Visitors are encouraged to bring donations for Community Cupboard a local tri-county food pantry. Who will be collecting nonperishable goods to support operations.

“So in addition for people to come out and have a good time, it's a chance for people to help others that maybe don't have the same opportunity to come out,” said Testani. “We know that we have very generous people that live in our community, and in the past we have filled barrels with nonperishable products,” he added.

With multiple events happening across Chenango County this weekend, Testani emphasized that Taste of Chenango is designed to complement the region's busy summer, not to compete with it.

“These events can complement one another, and if we have enough of these events in our community it shows that we are a healthy vibrant community and that's what attracts people to not only visit here but live here,” said Testani.

While the event is planned to be outdoors at the fairgrounds, organizers can move indoors to the market hall if the weather sours.

Ultimately, Taste of Chenango is designed to showcase the best of the region and remind residents why Chenango County remains a vibrant place to live, work, and gather.