For years, if you entertained at home, you probably assembled some type of tray with an assortment of crackers, cheese, meats and accompaniments to serve your guests. I don’t recall the term “charcuterie” but that is in fact what it was! In more recent times, it has become an art form as well as a frequent menu item at more hip restaurants. Wiscasset Area Chamber of Commerce is treating local foodies to an evening of food and fun at its first Battle of the Boards event.
Battle of the Boards will be held on Saturday, Aug. 19 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Maine Tasting Center, 508 Old Bath Road, Wiscasset.

Tickets are $20 per person and include samples of several charcuterie boards, and other light refreshments as well as a cash bar and food demonstrations. The Saltwater Artists Gallery of New Harbor plans to unveil its new satellite gallery in the Maine Tasting Center Discovery Center building during this event. Browse beautiful Maine food-themed artworks from local artists while you enjoy your samples from the contest boards. Tickets can be bought from Wiscasset Area Chamber of Commerce’s website or at the door or by calling 207-882-9600.

“I am always looking for some unique events that other chambers are holding and found this online!”Pat Cloutier, executive chamber manager, exclaimed. “Everyone has an interest in foodie things and we also love competition. What a perfect event to try out! Getting the community involved and allowing individuals and companies to show off their board skills sounded like it could be a fun activity that we could network, socialize, and connect.”

There is still time to sign up to compete. All you need to do is visit the Chamber’s website to register for $30 for chamber members and $45 for non-members.
Prizes will be awarded as follows: First, $300; second, $200; third, $100; and a People’s Choice by the people!

Shep Rust, 40-year owner of Le Garage Restaurant, and Mike Urban, food writer for Yankee Magazine and author of many books about the New England food scene, will be the judges. Our major sponsor for this first year’s “battle” is Sprague’s Lobster, thanks to Frank and Linda Sprague. If you have questions or would like to learn more about this event, call 207-882-9600 or email info@wiscassetchamber.com