It all began in 2005, when Jeffersonville was featured in New York Magazine for having some of the best small-town restaurants in America. Then-Mayor Tom Galligan brought together volunteers from various local organizations and asked a simple question: How do we highlight our incredible culinary scene?
The answer became a modest, food-forward event that welcomed about 150 guests and featured 10 or so local restaurants. In those early years, proceeds went directly back into supporting city events. Over time, the mission evolved — and so did our impact. Roughly a decade ago, we began using event proceeds to support beautification efforts around the city and to contribute to local school programs.
In 2024, our board voted unanimously to take the next step: to become our own independent, not-for-profit charity. With the retirement of several long-standing board members, a new wave of leadership stepped in, committed to expanding our reach and deepening our mission. Today, Taste of Jeffersonville is a fully established not-for-profit organization dedicated to celebrating local flavor while giving back to the community we love.
