The first “Battle of the Boards,” a charcuterie challenge, is coming to Wiscasset Saturday, Aug.  19.

Wiscasset Area Chamber of Commerce in partnership with Maine Tasting Center will host the event from 5 to 8 p.m. at Maine Tasting Center, 506 Old Bath Road, Wiscasset. Competition entry fee is $30 for chamber members and $45 for non-members. General admission is $20 and may be bought at the website or at the door. Food demos, cash bar, and fun will round out the event!

Charcuterie boards have gained popularity in recent years and is basically a serving board used to display meats, cheeses and other foods.But charcuterie has expanded to include anything your heart desires! It can be a themed board, a holiday, a certain cuisine, or anywhere your imagination takes you! Be sure to do a little Google searching for some fantastic ideas!

Boards must fit into a 4’ x 2-1⁄2’ area. Boards will be judged on Taste, Originality/creativity, and Appearance/presentation. Please see contest info at: https://wiscassetchamber.com/botb-contest-rules/

Cheryl "Shep" Rust, owner for 40 years, of Le Garage Restaurant in Wiscasset is one of two judges this year. During those 40 years, she devoted herself not just to the restaurant, but also to the community and the state, volunteering many hours on various committees and nonprofit organizations. She has received recognition many times for her contributions. We look forward to her expertise in the culinary field! Shep will be signing the chamber cookbook dedicated to her! Available for purchase.

Mike Urban, our second judge, is a New England-based food and travel writer, book publisher and the author of several books on New England cuisine: “Clam Shacks,” “Lobster Shacks,” “The New England Diner Cookbook,” “The New England Seafood Markets Cookbook” and “Unique Eats and Eateries of Maine.” He is a regular food writer for Yankee magazine. He has been covering the Maine food scene for more than a decade through his writings and personal appearances. Mike will be doing a book signing of his newest book, “Unique Eats and Eateries of Maine.”

Cash prizes will be awarded in the charcuterie contest: First, $300, second, $200, and third, $100. Every non-winner will receive a consolation prize for participation.

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. Sprague’s Lobster is the major sponsor for this year's challenge. Thank you Frank and Linda.

Deadline for contestants is Aug. 11, so please register today. Contact the chamber at 207-882-9600 or go to https://wiscassetchamber.com/battle-of-the-boards/ or https://www.facebook.com/events/275853061800716