The twenty-eighth annual Taste of Oviedo is one of the local events that gives the small businesses in the area a chance to show off their products and for the community to gather together with each other. The event took place this year on March 26, and was located at the Oviedo Mall.

On the day of the event, the weather was beautiful, and the sky was free of rain. So, the event itself took place on a perfect day for an outdoor festival like Taste of Oviedo. The food vendors filled the air with the aroma of their various varieties of treats such as, fresh kettle corn, barbeque, and even doughnuts. 

The Taste of Oviedo event was themed “Hot and Spicy,” and gave vendors the chance to highlight one hot or spicy themed dish” according to the official website. Some places like Kelly’s Ice Cream showcased their Mexican Chocolate flavor, while Rock & Brews showcased their sauces flavored with Carolina Reapers, one of the hottest peppers on Earth. 

Additionally , the festival did not only feature food vendors, but also had a free kids area that included chalk drawing, coloring activities, and bounce houses. There were businesses showcasing their services, and some of which were selling products including candles, clothing, accessories, and so much more. Daniel Kaprow, a senior at WSHS and a volunteer for sitting in the dunk tank for the Optimist Club, stated “[Taste of Oviedo] shows the ability of the community to come together, as well as shares different parts of Oviedo that people might not know about.” 

Moreover, the two stages on opposite sides of the festival area gave the crowds a chance to hear musicians of all ages. The stages were sponsored by the Music Box and School of Rock, two local businesses that offer music lessons, and had various styles of music from pop to jazz. 

The event itself is an all around great family event, and gave the community a chance to gather together and showcase its best. Since Taste of Oviedo is annual, those who missed the opportunity to go have the chance next year. The food, businesses, and entertainment allow for children and adults alike to spend a day outside getting a taste of the region.