A record-breaking turnout is expected for Taste of the Heights as community members look to the annual block party as a show of strength in a tense time.
Taste of the Heights, now in its 8th year, features the best food and drink Seminole Heights has to offer.
Attendees will receive a map and walk to 10 homes in Southeast Seminole Heights listening to live music and sampling menus from area bars and breweries.
The event runs from noon to 5 p.m. Sunday.
Organizer Stan Lasater says this year's event is especially important as locally-owned restaurants are now experiencing a financial hit.
"We go straight from Hurricane Irma now to the shootings," said Lasater. "Now they're suffering because people now are a little nervous to sit outside or come to the restaurants."
Julie Price picked up her event ticket Friday night during a pre-event party at c.1949.
"I hope they catch this sucker soon," said Price.
The longtime Seminole Heights resident is determined not to let a killer keep her from the annual tradition.
"This year is extra special due to the fact that we're all coming together and everybody's showing support for us," said Price.
Organizers tell ABC Action News the event sold out in 90 minutes. They expect 1,000 people to attend the three-block party, taking place along New Orleans Ave., East Ellicott Street, and East Caracus Street between Nebraska Avenue and the interstate.
Lasater says the event is still in need of volunteer drivers.
"With the current events we just didn't want anybody walking alone, trying to walk home… after dark."
Taste of the Heights is teaming up with ride-sharing company Lyft. Enter code "HEIGHTS2017" into the app for a discounted ride Sunday night.
