It’s not just what you’ll see, but it’s also what you’ll smell and taste that will make for a memorable evening at Tidewater Builders Association’s Spring Homearama showcase of homes.

Columbia Gas of Virginia and Hampton Roads Magazine will sponsor the “Taste of Isle of Wight County” from 6 to 8 p.m. Monday, May 17, in the Founders Pointe community, located just off Route 17 in Isle of Wight County. 

That’s when eight nearby eateries will be offering up samples for Homearama guests. Participating chefs are from AJ Gators, Bubba-N-Franks, Cedar Pointe Country Club, C.W. Cowlings, Lisa’s Sweet Shoppe, Smithfield Gourmet Bakery and Café, Smithfield Station and Vintage Tavern.

Visitors will vote for their favorite fare to determine who will win the coveted People’s Choice Award. A contingent of local food writers, led by Hampton Roads Magazine’s Food Editor Patrick Evans-Hylton, will determine who wins the Critics Choice Award.

Guests will sample the fare while visiting the eight fully decorated and landscaped homes in the show.  Each home displays a distinctive architectural style and most have a view of marsh or waterways. An 844-foot community observation pier is also available for guests to enjoy.

In addition to the fully furnished and landscaped showcase homes, an Idea Center will offer hundreds of products for the home and garden. Homearama is open May 8-23, noon until 9 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays, and until 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays.

General admission cost $10 for a one-day pass and $17 for a two-day pass. Active duty and retired military guests and seniors (62 or better) get a $3 discount Mon.-Thurs., and a $1 discount on weekends. Children 12 and under and guests in wheelchairs are free. Ticket sales will stop one hour before closing.

Admission is $10 for adults and free for children 12 and under. Seniors and active duty and retired military get a $3 discount Monday –Thursday and a $1 discount the rest of the week. More information, directions and a discount coupon are available at www.homearama.tv, or by calling 757-420-2434.