Taste of Lake Murray 2023

• The Taste of Lake Murray fundraiser is back for 2023, and this article gives you all the details:
  • Purpose of the Event
  • Crowd Favorites
  • Location and Cost

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A celebration of life, culture, and community, Taste of Lake Murray is back again in 2023 to delight even the most discriminating palates. Explore the culinary expertise of Lake Murray locals from Columbia to Saluda, and do not miss out on the live entertainment and music. This once-a-year experience is one of the lake’s largest events, so come prepared with a big appetite.

A Party with a Purpose

In association with Lake Murray Country, Lexington Medical Center is sponsoring Taste of Lake Murray. Although guests come to sample the fares of Columbia, there’s another reason for the event other than culinary curiosity: Lake Murray’s Fourth of July Fireworks Show. The evening of fun is, above all, a fundraiser to pay for the firework show’s costs. The firework show is Lake Murray’s biggest event of the year, but far more than just a spectacle — it’s about the spirit and camaraderie of the lake community. Fireworks displays here draw large crowds and bring attention to the lake, which provides advertising, revenue, and value for the lake and its homeowners.

Crowd Favorites

Now that we’ve gotten through the nitty-gritty of why — here are all the fun things you can do. The event will feature several different activities and pleasures for both the food critic and community philanthropist. Starting out the night right, ticket purchasers have access to an open bar with beer and wine, and there is plenty of room on the dance floor to bust a move. Meanwhile, numerous restaurants have stalls and food trucks showcasing seafood, barbecue, Italian, and Mexican fare. Restaurants win prizes for their food, and last year, Blue Marlin won an award for the best shrimp and grits — one of Cat Thornton’s favorites.

At some point in the night, the silent auction will begin, and visitors can bid on a series of items. Last year’s auction featured an extravagant paddleboat, and several smaller items are also available for bidding.

Throughout the night, the Swingin’ Medallions will own the main stage — they’ve worked with headliners such as Bruce Springsteen! When they’re not playing, beachy music will keep the party going. Prettier Than Matt will also take the stage, and the duo performs a mixture of styles that conjure images of Taylor Swift and Jason Mraz.

When, Where, and How Much?

Taking place at the Doubletree by Hilton in Columbia, Taste of Lake Murray is only 20 minutes from the lake right off I-20. The fabulous finger food festivities begin March 2, 2023, at 6 pm. But before you buy, Lake Murray Country is offering a special deal for tickets! For the early birds, tickets purchased before February 14 will cost just $75, and tickets will be $100 per person after the 14th. Tickets cover event entry, food, and the open bar. You can purchase your pass here.

Spots are filling up as we draw closer to the Taste of Lake Murray, so don’t miss your chance to join in on a beloved regional tradition.