One of the city’s most anticipated annual gatherings returns this week as the Taste of Folsom and Choose Folsom Community Awards brings together the people, businesses and stories that continue to shape the community, all under one roof for an evening of recognition and celebration.
Set for Thursday, April 30, the event blends two of Folsom’s most popular traditions — honoring standout community contributors while showcasing a wide range of local culinary favorites. The result is a high-energy evening that reflects both the spirit and the flavor of the city, drawing a crowd that spans business leaders, community advocates, residents and longtime supporters.
At the heart of the evening is the Taste of Folsom, where attendees will sample signature offerings from a lineup of well-known local establishments. Participating restaurants and food providers include Snooks Candies & Chocolate Factory, Beach Hut, Buckhorn BBQ, Gekkeikan, Mountain Mike’s, Nixtaco, Plank Craft Kitchen & Bar, Scott’s Seafood Roundhouse, Shake Shack and The Cookie Shoppe. Complementing the food selections will be pours from E16 Winery, Jazz Cellars Winery and More Real Estate Wine & Beer Bar, offering a curated taste of regional wines and beverages.
While the culinary experience draws guests in, the spotlight ultimately turns to the individuals and organizations being recognized for their lasting contributions to Folsom. This year’s honorees represent a cross-section of the community, from business leadership and education to nonprofit impact and longstanding civic involvement.
Among those being honored, John Messner will receive the Community Impact Award, while Jody De Schmidt is being recognized as Ambassador of the Year. Teichert Construction will be inducted into the Business Hall of Fame, and Judy Collinsworth will be named Folsom Champion for her continued dedication to the community.
Additional honorees include Handley’s Western Wear as Family Business of the Year, Plank Craft Kitchen & Bar as Emerging Business of the Year, and Howard Cadenhead as Educator of the Year. The evening will also recognize Harry Elliott as Rodeo Grand Marshal, Matt Loughgran as Entrepreneur of the Year, and Folsom Times’ own Adam Frick will be honored with the 2026 Legend of the Rodeo award. Powerhouse Ministries will be honored as Non-Profit of the Year for its ongoing impact and service.
2026 Community Award Honorees:
Community Impact Award: John Messner
Ambassador of the Year: Jody De Schmidt
Business Hall of Fame: Teichert Construction
Folsom Champion: Judy Collinsworth
Family Business of the Year: Handley’s Western Wear
Emerging Business of the Year: Plank Craft Kitchen & Bar
Educator of the Year: Howard Cadenhead
Rodeo Grand Marshal: Harry Elliott
Entrepreneur of the Year: Matt Loughgran
Legend of the Rodeo: Adam Frick
Non-Profit of the Year: Powerhouse Ministries
More than just an awards ceremony, the event has become a reflection of the community itself — a place where stories are shared, achievements are recognized and the collective pride of Folsom is on full display. Organizers emphasize that the significance of the night extends beyond the stage, highlighting the importance of community support for those who have consistently given back.
As each name is called, the moment resonates not only for the honorees, but for a community that has watched their contributions unfold over time. The event serves as both a celebration and a reminder of the people and organizations that continue to invest in Folsom’s growth, character and future.
With strong attendance expected once again, Thursday night’s gathering stands as a signature moment on the city’s calendar — one where recognition, connection and community come together in a meaningful way. To get tickets to attend visit www.choosefolsom.com.
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