Welcome back, TOL!

The much loved Taste of Lynwood will return to the south end this Saturday.

The island’s biggest block party is back, for the first time since 2013.

We’re excited by the long-awaited return of the family friendly event that closes out the summer with a fun and free day filled with live music, activities and a street fair.

But we’re equally thrilled by the hard work and support of event organizers, volunteers and sponsors who are bringing the event back after a four-year hiatus.

A big thanks is due to Historic Lynwood Center, Pleasant Beach Village and The Treehouse Café for reviving this much appreciated neighborhood celebration.

A happy nod, as well, to supporting sponsors Windemere Real Estate, Pane d’Amore Artisan Bakery and Roost; and to the event’s goodwill sponsors, as well; Bay Massage &Skin Care, The Beach House Bar, Hammy’s Burgers, The Marketplace at Pleasant Beach, Sash Mercantile, Heyday Farm, Bainbridge Island Outfitters + Depot, Earth &Vine, Manor House Restaurant, Island Cool Frozen Yogurt, Village Music at Island Center, Walt’s Market and Spider Lily Web Design.

One of the great things about the Taste of Lynwood — beyond the chance to nosh on some of the island’s best eats — is the support it lends to two local nonprofits: Bainbridge Youth Services and Kids Discovery Museum.

TOL kicks off at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 16 with the Baker Hill Challenge.

The Challenge, described by organizers as a “wild but mild foot race,” is a 1-mile scamper straight up Baker Hill near Lynwood Center, with the winners being crowned King and Queen of the hill. (Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. Saturday at the foot of Baker Hill, and a $20 donation provides participants a Bainbridge Youth Services bandana, a water bottle and T-shirts, while supplies last.) Proceeds from the Challenge benefit BYS, which works to offer free, confidential counseling, tutoring and job services for youth ages 12 through 21.

After the race, Taste of Lynwood continues at 11 a.m. through 8 p.m. with free live music. Family fun events run from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday.

For most, TOL is a chance to dust off our dancing shoes. There will be free live entertainment throughout the day, with a lineup that includes Massy Ferguson, Carl Verheyen, LeRoy Bell and His Only Friends, The Ben Van Dyk Group and The Cuban Hills.

Welcome back, Taste of Lynwood — we can hardly wait!