Get ready for “Jasper Eats”…in the Streets

Words by McKenzie Wade | Image by Al Blanton

If you love good food and hanging out in downtown Jasper, make plans to attend the fourth annual “Jasper Eats” from April 15-17, 2021. 

Jasper Main Street, a local organization that focuses on downtown revitalization, created the event to promote and celebrate the restaurants that call the streets of downtown Jasper home. 

The event was cancelled in 2020 due to Covid-19, but returns this year with a new twist. “This year is a little bit different because we are doing ‘Jasper Eats’ in the streets,” explains Jasper Main Street Executive Director Mike Putman. 

Thanks to a generous contribution from Carl Cannon Chevrolet, Jasper Main Street has purchased tables that will line downtown Jasper for the duration of the event.

On April 15 and 16, attendees can either dine inside the restaurant of their choice or enjoy takeout at sidewalk tables. On Saturday, April 17, some downtown streets will be closed to traffic but will be full of tables for guests to sit and enjoy good food and good company. 

Throughout the event, participating restaurants will be offering various specials. “If you go to Five Loaves, one night is steak night, [and] one night is Italian night,” Mike says. 

Whether you want a taco or a pizza, a latte or a dessert, there is sure to be something for you to enjoy. The food options will be endless, so be sure to bring your appetite and try a little bit of everything. 

In addition to restaurants, certain retailers have chosen to extend their hours and offer refreshments for the event.

“It is just to bring people to downtown—certainly residents, but more that, visitors. I just want it to bring commerce and connection to downtown Jasper,” Mike says.

While the Alabama mask ordinance will be lifted by the date of the event, Jasper Main Street is asking that attendees continue to take precautions and practice social distancing. 

“It is time for events to start back. We are not at normal, but we are getting back to a normal,” Putman explains. 78