Despite a huge, late afternoon downpour, the annual Champagne & Culinary Arts Reception got underway as scheduled at 5 PM on June 27.

The Festival thanks the food establishments that participated in this year's celebration:

A People’s Choice ballot was offered at the Reception: attendees had the opportunity of sampling the delights of all fourteen food establishments and then voting for their favorites. Two of Marblehead’s newest dining establishments took center stage in the voting. 5 Corners Kitchen, 2 School Street, was the People’s Choice winner. Ataraxis Tavern, 28 Atlantic Avenue, was a very strong second place.

StoneGroove provided music to keep everyone moving: a pinch of funk, a bit of soul, a blast of rock, and a groove of R&B. It’s a tight rhythm section and a blend of harmonies, featuring Terri O'Soro on lead vocals, Jamie Maes on bass & vocals, Arthur Zervas on lead guitar & vocals, and Eric Brown on drums & vocals.

The tradition continued as Marilyn and Cy Fishman once again judged the Champagne & Culinary Arts Reception Hat Contest.