Crowd gathers at Shipyard Park to get a ‘Taste of Mattapoisett’

MATTAPOISETT — Crowds lined up as soon as the clock struck 5 p.m. on Tuesday, July 16, eager to sample food from a number of local restaurants in the Mattapoisett Woman’s Club’s annual “Taste of Mattapoisett” event.

For $10, guests received 10 tickets that could be cashed in on a variety of food from most Mattapoisett eateries.

Food was not the only intrigue of the event, as the Mattapoisett Showstoppers added tunes to the aroma that already filled the air.

Attendees took cover from the searing sun under the Mattapoisett Lions Club tent, which is where the food and ice cold drinks were served.

Many of the restaurants who took part donated all profits from the event to Mattapoisett Woman’s Club scholarships.

“It’s such a fun event because everyone is in a good mood when they come down here,” said Sandy Hering, president of the Mattapoisett Woman’s Club.

Although many people were too busy with their platers in front of them to partake in much conversation, Hering also said that the event serves as a great way for people to catch up with one another.

Some of the many options available were pizza, ice cream, french fries and clam chowder.

“Everyone is in smiles and the showstoppers are incredible,” said Hering. “It's just a really great way to learn about all of the restaurants.”

This year marks the 20th year of the event in Mattapoisett, which starts to prepare residents for Harbor Days in Shipyard Park in the following days.

“We love our cooperation with the Lions Club,” said Hering. “They have been great to us and we hope they are happy with our kickoff.”