Final Taste of Whitefish on Thursday

After a run of 28 consecutive years, the final Taste of Whitefish is slated for Thursday, Sept. 10 in downtown.

The event has marked the transition to the fall tourist season in Whitefish since 1987 when it was created in an effort to fuel shoulder season tourism.

But these days, business is good in September, said Whitefish Chamber of Commerce executive director Kevin Gartland.

“So good that many of our more popular restaurants and caterers can’t spare the staff needed to take part in the Taste,” he said.

“Obviously, it’s time for the event to change.”

The Chamber is cooking up plans for a new event to debut in 2016.

Sponsored by Kalispell Toyota and the Whitefish Chamber, the final Taste event on Thursday is being dubbed “The Last Best Taste.”

The roster of participating restaurants includes Latitude 48, Wasabi Sushi Bar, The Boat Club, Ciao Mambo, John’s Angels Catering, and The Cuisine Machine, among others.

Also on hand will be the Glacier Sun Winery, as well Glacier Distilling Company, and Great Northern Brewing Co.

Tickets for the 2015 Taste of Whitefish are priced at $40 in advance; $45 on the day of the event.

Call the Whitefish Chamber of Commerce offices at 862-3501, stop by the Chamber offices at 307 Spokane Avenue anytime Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., or visit www.WhitefishChamber.org.