Oh, the rich tastes, scents, and variations of tamales are once again coming together once again at Casino Del Sol. The AVA Amphitheater is hosting the 16th annual Tucson Tamal & Heritage Festival from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on Saturday, December 4.

This festival is perfectly placed on the calendar as the holiday season coincides with the cravings for tamales. Perhaps the biggest gift of all is the fact that the event is totally free. What a gift, right?

Everyone’s invited to celebrate the rich tastes, scents, and the vast variety of tamales from the Southwest and Mexico. For weeks, tamale aficionados have been crafting the perfect tamale to enter in the contest, which gives everyone an opportunity to raise funds.

The Tamale Contest, which includes more than 50 judges, includes four categories this year: traditional red, green corn, gourmet, and sweet. The winners of the competition are given cash prizes from $150 to $500 for first, second, and third place in each category.

The best all-around winner has the opportunity to win $750.

Again, the event is free and open to the public. Additionally, there’s going to be live local entertainment, food vendors, artisan vendors, a farmers market, and plenty of other family fun.

Casino Del Sol’s AVA Amphitheater is located at 5655 W. Valencia Rd. For more information, call (520) 838-6400 or visit casinodelsol.com.