The Taste of Tacoma is an annual tradition for foodies in Pierce County. The large number of vendors, trucks and entertainment at the Point Defiance-located festival has been a kick-off to summer for the past 30 years, and 2016 looks to be no exception. In fact, the Taste is getting even bigger by giving attendees even more to do besides gorging themselves on food.

There's a surplus of music at this year's Taste, including three separate performance stages. The Bowl Stage features classic rock and country artists, including tribute acts for legendary artists such as U2, Elvis and Pink Floyd. The Pond Stage has dance/Top 40 vibe to it, ranging from disco to EDM. Finally, the Rose Garden Stage hosts artists playing smooth, relaxing jazz and R&B, for those that just wish to lay back and enjoy their grub with a pillowy soundtrack.

Of course, smooth jazz isn't the only attraction in the rose garden this year: The Taste has also added The Wine Bar, where those over 21 can sip wine by the glass or flight. Furthermore, the Craft Beer Tasting returns for its second year right next door, where local breweries like Gig Harbor's 7 Seas and Tacoma's Narrows Brewing will be showcased. There are happy hour deals for both of these drinking hot spots.

Still, what will always be the main focus and draw of the Taste of Tacoma is the food, and the chefs come ready to play this year. With over 30 restaurants featured, the amount of choices is almost staggering, from American comfort food like cheesesteaks and barbeque, to global cuisine such as piroshky and shawarma. There's even alligator on a stick (big stick?). There'll be food trucks as well, which includes the legendary Fisher scones from Puyallup Fair fame.

Some of the other events include The Taste Cooks, where chefs from all over the Puget Sound will demonstrate their culinary skills, and compete. And don't forget the family-friendly Funtastic Carnival, filled with fair-style games and rides so the young'uns don't get too bored.

Megan Postiglione, the media director for the event, says that the Taste of Tacoma's mission is to continue to provide a large outlet for the 253's various skills.

"Our hope is to show off great local talent, whether it be food, or music, or handcrafted items. We try to really get into the community to show the best of Tacoma, and really just what the area's all about," Postiglione said. "Obviously, Seattle has a really big restaurant scene, but I think Tacoma's restaurant scene is continuing to grow and thrive."

The Taste of Tacoma will run June 24-26 from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. (8 p.m. on Sunday). Admission is free, and food price varies per vendor. You can find more information at www.tasteoftacoma.com.