The inaugural Mesa Food Fest will bring together local culture and cuisine plus Grammy-nominated Blues Traveler.

The festival, presented by Angry Crab Shack, is set for Saturday, Feb. 17 at the Mesa Amphitheater. The hours are split into two events featuring the Mesa Food Fest from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. where fest goers will be able to experience the food festival, then concert hop from 5 to 8 p.m. with Blues Traveler.

A portion of the proceeds from the event will benefit multiple local nonprofits that support diverse communities including Phoenix Childrens’ Hospital, Arizona Housing Coalition, and Save the Family.

The Fest will feature a variety of international eats and treats from local vendors serving up fine authentic dishes. Other highlights include watermelon, wing, steak, and pie eating competitions along with an interactive kids’ corner and a pet park.

The live music entertainment lineup will include six bands ranging from 90s rock to jazz to blues performances on two stages. Blues Traveler will take the main stage at 6:30 p.m.

“The focus of this event is to bring community together to indulge in cultural culinary cuisine and elevated entertainment experiences,” Landon Evans, Mesa Food Fest event organizer, shared in a press release. “We invite you and your families to come out an indulge, enjoy an array of great food, live entertainment and fun.”

Blues Traveler formed in Princeton, New Jersey, in 1987 and are best known for their Top 40 singles "Run-Around," "Hook," and "But Anyway.” The group’s latest album, “Traveler's Blues,” was released in 2021 and was nominated by The Recording Academy for Best Traditional Blues album at the 2022 Grammy Awards.

Festival and concert presale tickets are $30 presale. Mesa Food Fest only costs $10 and includes live entertainment, food eating competitions, and activities.

Visit angrycrabshack.com/mesafoodfest.com for tickets.

Visit angrycrabshack.com.