The Effingham Chamber of Commerce announced plans to hold the second annual “Taste of Effingham” on March 1.

The Chamber is planning to have between 20 and 25 restaurants featured. Chef Nick Mueller of the Laughing Boar, Hunters Pride BBQ, the Schnitzel Shack, Simply Southern, and the Culinary Class of Savannah Tech under Chef Jean, and the culinary class of the Effingham Career Academy are the first to sign up.

The event will be held at the Effingham County Recreation Department gym in Springfield.

“I think the rec department gym is about the only place large enough to accommodate an event like this,” said Chamber director Rick Lott, “and last year it was nearly full.”

For one price you’ll be able to sample delicious treats from a room full of restaurants and caterers, enjoy a glass of wine, beer, Coke or water, and enjoy the music of a band while looking at the great items for purchase in a silent auction. Lott said he’s working to put a “first class” auction together and already has weekend hotel packages for Daytona, St. Simons and Savannah put together along with an item from Paula Deen. And there is so much more yet to come.

“This is one auction you won’t want to miss, it’s going to be even bigger than last year’s,” said Lott.

And to lend an Irish flavor to the evening, popular Irish singer, Harry O’Donoghue, will perform and this year is bringing some of his friends. This will be Effingham’s own St. Patrick’s celebration.

If you are interested in having a food booth for the event, sign up and start deciding what kind of mouth-watering items you will want to present to the audience. The Chamber is hoping for a crowd of between 400 and 500.  What a great way to kick off the spring in Effingham County. Restaurants and sponsorships are being taken.

For more information on participating, email ricklott@effinghamcounty.com or call the Chamber offices at 754-3301.