On Oct 18, Lakeside Ashland will be taken over by all things Columbia cuisine. Including live music, entertainment and retail vendors alongside the food, COMO Flavors is a can’t-miss for foodies.

The festival will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. While there is no purchase necessary to attend, a ticket book can be purchased for $35, which allows sampling from ten participating restaurants. Pre-purchasing your ticket book gets you to the food faster by allowing holders to bypass the lines as well. Those who would rather enjoy the community, fall weather and live music may simply show up for free!

Over a dozen restaurants will participate from beloved local staples to hot up-and-coming spots. A portion of festival proceeds will benefit Dream Tree Academy 573, a non-profit benefitting Columbia’s youth. Volunteer options are also available for sign-up!

Since last January, COMO Flavors has been run by three Columbians with passions for dining, business and community. This festival is about celebrating Columbia’s diversity and culture, united by food.