Each year the Alabama Department of Tourism announces its marketing theme for the year. Last year in 2023 was the “Year of Birding,” and 2024 has been announced as the “Year of Alabama Food.”
Renowned for its diverse culinary landscape, Alabama offers an array of the best food, ranging from award-winning fine dining to sophisticated wineries and breweries to cozy, off-the-beaten-path eateries. Alabama’s rich food scene makes it a prime destination for tasting the exquisite flavors of the South.
To spotlight the many culinary experiences Etowah County has to offer, Greater Gadsden Area Tourism recently produced a full-page mouthwatering ad that will be used throughout the year. Each of the six featured restaurants had the opportunity for Howard Design Group, LLC in Gadsden to do an extensive photo shoot of their specialty menu item.
“We really want everyone to know what kind of amazing food is available in the greater Gadsden area,” said photographer Malcolm Howard. “I was happy to be a partner on this project.”
Greater Gadsden Area Tourism markets Gadsden and the surrounding towns by attending trade shows, placing ads in travel magazines, mailing out visitors guides and operating the Visitors Information Center.
“The biggest challenge in promoting Etowah County is making sure that we are spotlighting not only the great places to eat in Gadsden but our entire county,” said Greater Gadsden Area Tourism Executive Director Tina Morrison.
For the “Year of Alabama Food” ad, the following local restaurants were featured: Nikki’s Grazing Boards in Hokes Bluff; Big Chief Drive-In in Glencoe; Local Joe’s in Rainbow City, Mater’s Pizza in Gadsden, Hector’s Kitchen in Attalla, Top O’ the River in Gadsden and J.P. & Son in Southside. This ad will be submitted into the many regional magazines where Greater Gadsden Area Tourism regularly advertises, as well as being entered into an award contest hosted by Alabama Department of Tourism for themed campaigns.
Greater Gadsden Area Tourism operates the Visitors Information Center at 623 Broad St., Gadsden, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Submitted by Greater Gadsden Area Tourism