Community turns out for 17th Annual Taste of Long Beach
LONG BEACH, Miss. (WXXV)- The 17th annual Taste of Long Beach brought local businesses and thousands of visitors together for a night of food, entertainment, and community support.
The Harper McCaughan Town Green was filled with 80 food and drink vendors for the Chamber of Commerce’s largest fundraiser of the year.
Guests also enjoyed live performances and a silent auction.
Last year, the chamber awarded $40,000 in small business grants. This fundraiser will help continue that investment in the Long Beach community. Attendees Kelly and Phillip Loving said, “We’ve been having a lot of fun and we just got here not too long ago. I already feel like we’ve eaten half way through the whole set up today.” “They’ve really done a great job tonight! There are a lot of vendors, food, and a lot of friends that are here. So, it’s a good opportunity to get out and see some old friends for sure.”
Tanner Montella with the Chamber of Commerce said, “I’m ecstatic. This is nothing short of everything we dreamed of. I know everyone on the chamber board was hoping for this turnout and I think it’s beyond our expectations.”
Anna Perrone with the Chamber of Commerce said, “Honestly, we’re speechless, the Long Beach community and the whole Mississippi Gulf Coast, when they show up, they show out. It’s just been amazing! We have over 2,000 people with us tonight and it’s for the better of the whole community. Every penny we make stays right here in Long Beach with our small businesses.”
Organizers say the event also gave local businesses an opportunity to connect with new customers while showcasing what the Long Beach community has to offer.
