A Taste of many things Hudson on Sunday and Monday

People make their way along the sidewalk in the town square in the city of Hudson. (Ed Suba Jr./Akron Beacon Journal)

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From Zumba fitness to Monica Robins and the Whiskey Kings, visitors to downtown Hudson will have a variety of activities to experience during the 8th Annual Taste of Hudson this Labor Day Weekend.

Hours are Sunday from noon to 8 p.m, and Monday from 11:00 to 6 p.m.

 Taste of Hudson is a Rotary Club of Hudson, class of 2003-2004, project.  Its purpose is to promote entrepreneurship in the community, and raise funds for area non-profits.  

Taste of Hudson has raised approximately $205,000 for charities over the past seven years.

Andy Malitz, co-founder and executive director of the event, says that last year it brought in approximately $30,000, and the primary beneficiary was Safe Kids Coalition of Summit County.  Safe Kids is still primary this year, and Malitz says that approximately 15 other organizations will receive funds as well.

The chosen organizations are either located in Hudson, or serve the needs of the community.

Malitz is watching Hurricane Isaac closely.  While he hopes it leaves the Louisiana area quickly for the sake of their residents, he also hopes the residue of the storm won't move too quickly toward Ohio.

Taste of Hudson is "a rain or shine" event, he says, and although last year's weather wasn't ideal, Malitz said community support made it a highly successful event.

Twenty Hudson restaurants are participating in this free event. To sample the wares of local dining establishments such as Nosh Eatery, Aladdin's, the Tomato Grill and North End, dining debit cards can be purchased at the Taste of Hudson tent, and loaded with any amount desired.

Food is sold in samples, which cost $5 or less.  Each restaurant will sell from its own tent.

 Other restaurants that will have a booth include: Flip Side Hudson; Hudson's Restaurant; 3 Palms Pizzeria; Marcelita's Mexican; Cilantro Thai & Sushi; Rosewood Grill; Otani's; Adam's Reserve; Donato's; Pizza Bogo.com; Luchita's;  Maui Wowi; Hudson's Catering; One Red Door; Piatto Novo; and Zeppe's Pizzeria

 FITNESS

To work off some of those calories, Western Reserve Racquet and Fitness Club is hosting "Zumba Fest at the Taste", on Monday from 10 to 11 a.m. at the North End Wine & Beer Garden staging area.

Participants can exercise to a fusion of Latin and International music.  No pre-registration is required.

A SAMPLE OF ACTIVITIES FOR CHILDREN

Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores will operate the Jo-Ann Kids' Craft Zone in the Akron Children's Hospital Activities Green. 

Children can try out the latest toys in Little Tikes Land, in the same area.

Bouncy’s Party Fun will provide large inflatables at the Clocktower Green.

The Cleveland Cavaliers will bring their "Cavs Caravan', to First Street, with interactive fun.

Jungle Terry will appear with live animals at 12:30 p.m. on Monday.

MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT

More than100 musical acts are scheduled to perform, on eight stages throughout downtown.  Six local dance groups will also appear.

There will be a special concert Sunday night at the Buford T. Hedgehog stage at the North End Wine & Beer Garden. The concert will include performances by The Fabulous Voices set to open the show at 6:30, the Santana tribute group, Evil Ways Band, at 7:30 and Monica Robins and the Whiskey Kings will close the show starting at 9 p.m.