Seeing live music while consuming sushi can be a transcendent mind-body experience, akin to getting a tattoo underwater, or making out during an eclipse. Transcend boredom with today's Groupon: for $11, you get a one-day general admission ticket to Taste of Newport, which runs September 17–19 (a $22 value). This ticket includes access to all concerts and events on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday. Children younger than 8 enter for free.

Staged on the vibrant streets outside Fashion Island in Newport Beach, the 22nd-annual Taste plays host to more than 20 restaurants and dessert companies, 15 wineries, a blend of flavorful cocktail concoctors, and legendary purveyors of rock, roll, and Grammy-worthy riffs. Stage performances include Gin Blossoms on Friday, Foreigner on Saturday, and Pat Benatar featuring Neil Giraldo closing down the mouthwatering weekend on Sunday. As each day builds toward a rocking conclusion and 12-hour Korean War reenactment, tasters can traverse the tents, sampling everything from sushi to filet mignon to crème brûlée from some of the area's most distinctive eateries such as The Yard House, Ho Sum Bistro, and The Beachcomber Café. On-site self-parking is free, valet parking is available, and bicycling to the event in a bib is possible.

Reviews

The Daily Pilot and the Orange County Register recently featured Taste of Newport. Reviewers have varied opinions about the food at the event, but they enjoy the setting. Although Yahoo! Travelers give it an average of 2.5 stars, nine Yelpers give it an average of four stars:

• I have been going to the Taste Of Newport for many years, each and every time a fun time. The different restaurants' and band's playing are always a delight – Alex R., Yelp
• go to the Taste of Newport, enjoy the great food, good beverages, and stop for a moment and people watch - it's great! – Marvin J., Yelp