Twenty-plus restaurants, bars and food purveyors will show off their culinary talents tonight, Tuesday, Feb. 28, at the first ‘Taste of the Highlands’ festival. The tasting event is a fund raiser for Highlands Community Ministries, and will take place from 5:30-8 p.m. at the Highlands Community Campus, 1228 E. Breckinridge St.

The event, organized by the Highland Commerce Guild, will offer samples of food and drink from participating restaurants and sponsors, as well as live music by the Billy Goat Strut Revue. The theme of the evening is Fat Tuesday, which means that there will be beads, masks, and all that Fat Tuesday jazz.

Among the businesses participating will be Asiatique, Bristol Bar & Grille, Ciao Bistro & Bar, Eat-a-Pita, Highland Morning, Jack Fry’s, Joy Luck, Kashmir Indian, Kizito Cookies, Morris Deli, O’Shea’s Irish Pub, Somewhere Louisville, The Cafe, and Wiltshire Pantry. Cumberland Brews and Great Flood Brewery will serve samples of their beers, Maker’s Mark will provide Bourbon drinks and Morris Deli & Liquors will provide wine. For those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages, Ale-8-One, Heine Brothers’ Coffee, and Louisville Pure Tap will be serving.

Highlands Community Ministries helps residents in need of food and emergency financial help and offers quality-of-life programs. It’s comprised of 22 area congregations and was officially formed in 1970.

All-inclusive tickets allowing samples of all of the savory tastes, spirits, and beverages are $50, and can be purchased here. All guests must be at least 21 years of age.