After a successful debut in 2009, 'Taste of Wilson County' organizers have added more icing on the cake for this year's edition, which is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 14 from 5 until 8 p.m.

'Taste' partners Wilson Bank & Trust, Performance Foodservice and the Lebanon/Wilson County Chamber of Commerce have added a number of upgrades in response to overflow crowds at last year's first-of-its-kind event. Among the improvements visitors will observe in 2010 are increased venue space, additional parking options, a new shopping area and activities for children.

'Taste of Wilson County' will occupy more than twice the floor space at The Mill in Lebanon, where visitors can sample food from many of the county's best eateries as they chat with the chefs themselves. A new marketplace area will allow guests to purchase gift items from both food and non-food vendors and will feature a book signing by legendary songwriter Curly Putman.

More parking options will make it easier for guests to get in and out at the event. Regular parking at The Mill and Liberty State Bank will be accompanied by a free trolley service to nearby parking lots at the Music City Star station on West Baddour, First United Methodist Church on West Main and Bank of America near the Public Square. Valet parking will also be available on a limited basis for a $5 donation.

There's also more for children to enjoy at 'Taste' this year. Kid-friendly foods will be offered by many vendors, and local artist Scott Harris will lead a workshop where children can create their own work of art for $10. Interested parents can pre-register their children for the art activity by calling The Art Mill at 444-8828.

Tickets for 'Taste of Wilson County' can be purchased in advance for $10 at the Lebanon Chamber and all area Wilson Bank & Trust locations. Tickets at the gate are $15. All proceeds from 'Taste of Wilson County' benefit Chamber education programs, including Wilson Books from Birth, TN Scholars, the Teacher Grant Program and area scholarships.

More than 1,200 tickets were sold last year for 'Taste of Wilson County,' with more than $9,000 raised. More information about the event is available at www.tasteofwilsoncounty.com.

Pictured, above: 'Taste of Wilson County' drew a large crowd and raised more than $9,000 for Chamber education programs in 2009. Several enhancements have been added for this year's event on Oct. 14 at The Mill in Lebanon, including increased venue space, more parking options, a new marketplace area and an activity for children.