(Photo Illustration - MetroCreativeConnection)

Parkersburg’s favorite fall celebration, the Downtown Throwdown Food & Beer Festival, is set to return with a full evening of food, drinks and music in the heart of downtown on Aug. 23.

As the city’s premier fall event, the Throwdown draws residents and visitors alike for a unique experience that showcases local flavor and regional talent. This year’s festivities promise all the highlights fans have come to expect – beer tastings, mouthwatering food from area vendors and high-energy, live entertainment.

Set along Market Street, the event will run into the evening with food tastings available from 6 to 9:30 p.m. and beer tastings until 10. Tickets are available in advance for $20, and $25 at the gate. For convenience, guests are encouraged to purchase tickets online at www.downtownpkb.com/event-tickets.

New this year, the event is going cashless. Attendees should come prepared with a debit or credit card, as no cash will be accepted at the entrance or for beverage purchases. However, individual food vendors may still choose to accept cash.

Local restaurants participating in this year’s Throwdown include The Blennerhassett Hotel, Hangry’s Food Truck & Catering, Jimmy Avocado’s, The Little Stirr, Pappy’s Lip Smackin BBQ, The Pizza Station on 3rd Street, Unity Mac Bar & Bistro and The West Virginia Polo Club. Guests will pay these vendors directly for their food selections, and vendors will determine whether they accept cash, card or both. In terms of beverages, a variety of domestic and craft beers will be available from participating distributors, with a limited selection of wine offered at the concession stand. All beverage purchases must be made using a debit or credit card.

Entertainment will play a key role in setting the mood at this year’s Throwdown. The Taylor Sams Band will take the stage from 5:45 to 7:45 p.m., delivering a set rooted in soulful, local country music. Following a short intermission, the Jake Binegar Band will close the night from 8-10 p.m. Binegar, a rising star from the Mid-Ohio Valley, is known for his smooth vocals, authentic lyrics and energetic stage presence.

The Downtown Throwdown is made possible thanks to the support of generous community sponsors. This year’s title sponsor is Biztec, with WVUP Innovation & Technology Center serving as the technology sponsor. Platinum sponsors include Spriggs Distributing Co. and WVU Medicine Camden Clark. Additional support comes from gold sponsors – The Basement Doctor of WV, CAS Cable, CSL Plasma, Grogg’s Home Services, One Community Federal Credit Union and United Bank.

With great food, cold drinks and live music under the lights of downtown Parkersburg, the Downtown Throwdown continues to grow as a signature event that brings people together and celebrates what makes the Mid-Ohio Valley special.

***

Jessica Strickler is the events and marketing manager for Downtown PKB.