Oakdale’s Bianchi Community Center will be turned in to a place for some fine wining and dining soon, with the annual Taste of Oakdale slated for Tuesday, Aug. 30.

Actually, it’s more of a sip and snack event, with local businesses offering up a wide variety of food and drinks for attendees to sample. Hours for the event are 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. and pre-sale tickets are $25 each; price at the door is $35 per ticket.

“Taste of Oakdale is a great opportunity to sample local food and beverages in one location,” said Chamber of Commerce CEO Mary Guardiola.

Featured items range from Mexican, American and Italian food bites to bakery items, gourmet cheese, wines and microbrews. Participants must have their business in or live in the Oakdale area, truly providing a local showcase, said Guardiola.

Tickets can be purchased at the Oakdale Chamber, 590 N. Yosemite Ave.; Oak Valley Community Bank at 125 N. Third Ave.; Steves Chevrolet-Buick, 1285 E. F St.; and the Oakdale Leader, 122 S. Third Ave.

You can also pay online, through PayPal, at www.OakdaleChamber.com.

Guardiola said the idea is to stroll throughout the community center and sample as many foods and beverages as you like, enjoying old favorites and possibly finding some new ones as well.

“I enjoy hearing the socializing during the event that happens,” Guardiola added. “It is like going to dinner with a few hundred of your friends.”

This year marks the eighth annual showcase event for Oakdale businesses and residents.