Watching a live cook in front of you often involves delicious samples and is far superior to watching them cook on TV, which often includes screen licking and electricity-tinged aftertastes. Belly up to tangible tastes with today's Groupon: for $5, you get a one-day adult ticket (a $10 value) to the Upstate Spice of Life Show, located at the Carolina First Center. This Groupon can be redeemed for a visit on either Friday, April 29 or Saturday, April 30. Children 12 and younger are admitted free.

At the Upstate Spice of Life Show, culinary aficionados and their families can interact with celebrity chefs and fitness experts while perusing vendor spaces and gleaning helpful tidbits on wellness and nutrition. Head to the cooking stage for renowned chef demonstrations that include cooking with herbs to preparing quick and healthy meals, or hit up the entertaining stage to learn how to craft impressive centerpieces or entertain guests with the ultracompetitive hybrid sport of dog grooming via precise fire breathing. Exhibitors showcase a miscellany of goods and services, from loose-leaf teas and honey samples to cutlery. The fitness and wellness zone motivates participants to amp up their workout regimens with invigorating routines, and the green-living area encourages environmentally affable practices. See the show's full schedule here.