Novi Taco Fest attracts foodies from across metro Detroit

NOVI — The second annual Novi Taco Fest attracted foodies from across metro Detroit when it took over a section of the Twelve Mile Crossing at Fountain Walk parking lot Aug. 25-27.

This year’s event differed from the festival’s original concept, which included an art fair, as the appeal of tacos alone was much greater than anticipated last year.

“The event was founded last year as an art fair with a few taco trucks, but the event caught on and went viral on Facebook, and the artists were overwhelmed by the taco fest,” said event manager Bart Loeb.

The move proved to be a good one as the show was attended by 20,000 people this year, according to Loeb. That’s 4,000 more people than last year, despite storms taking out power lines Aug. 24.

“Lots of people called to see if it was canceled, as they were afraid our power might be out, but we used giant generators,” Loeb said.

The event featured a vast variety of taco trucks from across the country, many of which put a unique spin on traditional tacos. One example was sushi tacos, which attendee Robert Romero, of Dearborn, said was his favorite.

“It’s like drugs if it was food,” Romero said. “I’m addicted to food. Some (other) people here are addicted to food.”

Also available were more traditional taco vendors, and fair foods such as elephant ears.

Many vendors selling Mexican cultural items also were on hand, as well as some  vendors offering trips, cutlery, and specialty foods such as dipped and filled strawberries. Local cannabis shops took advantage of the opportunity to mingle food with THC, offering everything from organic CBD salves to dog treats.

There was plenty of entertainment as well with the return of lucha libre wrestlers, dancers and plenty of contests.

What was the Novi Fine Art Fair last year was relocated to Pinckney. It will be held in the Pinkney Town Square Park Sept. 30-Oct. 1. Loeb said the art fair will once again include tacos and margaritas. More information on the art fair is available at www.ArtFairFun.com.