Summer is heatin' up at the Grand Rapids Downtown Market on Saturday, July 29, with a brand new event: Salsa Celebración.
"It's the perfect opportunity to celebrate the combination of the summer heat and the bounty of fresh produce, like tomatoes and peppers, in West Michigan," said Amanda Gielczyk, Director of Marketing and Special Events. "Who doesn't love fresh salsa?"
There will be plenty of fresh salsa.
The event kicks off at noon with salsa sampling from Grand Rapids area restaurants, including the Downtown Market's own Blue Spoon and Incubator Kitchen tenant, Vault Catering.
"From smoky and spicy to refreshing and vibrant, Market guests should look forward to a lot of salsa variety," Gielczyk said.
With mechanical bull rides, make-and-take crafts, and a Piñata Smash, Salsa Celebración is fun for the whole family. For adults, a Market Margarita Bar will serve traditional, spicy, blackberry and strawberry margaritas for more south-of-the-border fun.
And if the sizzilin' summer heat isn't enough for you, put your taste buds to the test during a hot pepper eating contest.
"It depends on how hot 'hot' is for you, but we will say that it certainly won't be an easy challenge!" Gielczyk said. "Whoever can withstand the heat for multiple rounds will walk away with a trophy, $25 Downtown Market gift card, and the yearning for a glass of milk."
Salsa Celebración wouldn't be complete without salsa dancing and demonstrations of Cuban and LA style with Moveir Dance Studio.
Think you can take the heat? Find Salsa Celebración's schedule of events at downtownmarketgr.com.
Photo courtesy of the Grand Rapids Downtown Market
