A Taste of Summer in Bloomington, Indiana

Kirkwood Avenue never feels more alive than it does on a warm August evening when the Taste of Bloomington transforms the heart of the city into a celebration of flavor, music, and local pride. On Saturday, August 2, 2025, the iconic downtown stretch between Walnut and Indiana will close to traffic and open up to thousands of food lovers eager to sample the best bites Bloomington has to offer.

This isn’t your average food festival. There's no ticket to enter, no VIP sections—just a laid-back, all-are-welcome experience that invites everyone to explore the culinary diversity of this vibrant college town. From 3 to 10 p.m., the air will be thick with the aroma of barbecue, fresh pizza, spicy street tacos, and sweet baked goods. Over 50 restaurants, food trucks, and Kirkwood favorites will line the avenue, offering up dishes priced at just $5 or less.

It’s not just the food that makes Taste of Bloomington special—it’s the spirit of the place. Families gather in People’s Park, where the Kid Zone offers activities for the little ones. Dogs trot beside their owners, tails wagging in rhythm with the music echoing from the main stage. Bloomington’s own musicians keep the energy high, with past lineups featuring everything from bluegrass and soul to indie rock and jazz.

If you're thirsty, you won’t have to look far. Local breweries like Upland Brewing Co. and Bloomington Brewing Company will be pouring cold pints, while Oliver Winery and Cardinal Spirits serve up sips of wine and craft cocktails. Everything is sourced from nearby, a deliberate choice that supports local makers and keeps the event grounded in community.

Longtime favorites like FARMbloomington, Nick’s English Hut, and Uptown Cafe will be on hand, joined by a fleet of food trucks including Jay’s Kitchen, Mama Duke’s Hawaiian BBQ, and The Pierogi Place. And dessert lovers, rejoice—Hartzell’s Ice Cream and Little Black Dog Bakery are sure to satisfy every sweet craving.

This year, the festival has also focused on sustainability. Water refill stations will be available, and attendees are encouraged to bring their own bottles. Open containers are allowed within the event boundaries, but guests are reminded not to carry drinks into local businesses.

Parking is plentiful, with garages and metered spots available throughout downtown. But if you live nearby, consider walking or biking—it’s the kind of event that feels best enjoyed at a slower pace.

Presented by Master Rental and supported by Visit Bloomington, IU Health, The Orbit Room, and a host of community sponsors, Taste of Bloomington isn’t just about the food—it’s a snapshot of what makes this city so beloved. It's a chance to savor the last stretch of summer, connect with neighbors, and celebrate the small businesses that give Bloomington its unique flavor.

So come hungry. Bring your friends. Dance a little. Sip something local. And let Bloomington show you how it tastes.