The 2025 World Margarita Championship returns on Saturday, June 14, at the beautiful Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort and Spa, 245 E. Ina Rd.
Just in time for Father’s Day weekend, the World Margarita Championship—hosted by the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance (SAACA) and Tucson Originals Restaurants—is set against the scenic backdrop of the Sonoran Desert.
World Margarita Championship (Photo courtesy of SAACA)
“Guests will embark on a flavorful journey, sampling dozens of handcrafted margaritas and expertly paired culinary creations while enjoying live entertainment, interactive arts experiences, and the vibrant energy of Tucson’s thriving local food and beverage scene,” said Da’Lice Shepard of SAACA. “Whether you’re a margarita connoisseur, a culinary enthusiast, or just looking for the perfect way to celebrate Father’s Day weekend, this is Tucson’s can’t-miss summer tradition—where you help crown the next World Margarita Champion.”
So, pack an appetite because the World Margarita Championship brings together some of Tucson’s best chefs and mixologists for a high-energy, interactive tasting competition.
You’ll sample original margarita creations and paired small bites from restaurants competing for the coveted “Judge’s Choice” and “People’s Choice” awards for “Best Margarita” and “Best Bite.”
World Margarita Championship Menus
World Margarita Championship (Photo courtesy of SAACA)
Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen
Margarita: Margarita del Sol – Spicy, piña, coco, and Aperol
Food: Shrimp Mango Ceviche – Mango, shrimp, pico de gallo, and sauces
Bashful Bandit Barbecue
Margarita: A-Maize-Arita – Tallow-washed tequila and elote liqueur
Proceeds from the World Margarita Championship directly support SAACA and its mission to strengthen community connections through the arts, culture, and culinary experiences.
“At a time when creative industries face increasing challenges—from funding shortages to rising costs of producing accessible community programs—the arts need more support than ever. By attending this event, guests aren’t just enjoying Tucson’s vibrant food and beverage scene—they’re helping to sustain year-round educational initiatives, cultural festivals, live performances, and artist opportunities that keep Southern Arizona’s creative economy alive and thriving.”
World Margarita Championship (Photo courtesy of SAACA)
Every ticket sold helps ensure that the arts continue to inspire, connect, and bring people together for generations to come.
The 2025 World Margarita Championship is happening at Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort and Spa, 245 E. Ina Rd.Tickets are available now at saaca.thundertix.com.
At a very young age, Matt Sterner was gifted with the artistic ability to masterfully roll a burrito to the highest of standards, but the wrapped medley of delicious innards wasn’t his first love. Matt’s first true love was a combination of reading, writing, and creating. He grew up reading comics, the ingredients list of his shampoo and conditioner bottles, choose-your-own-adventure books, and the Scrabble dictionary — something he found useful when challenging his grandmother to a game.
He attended college at New Mexico State University and graduated with a degree in Digital Filmmaking. One of his favorite classes was screenwriting because he became responsible for the story’s birth before it came to life on-screen. After school, Matt took on numerous positions at a local television station in Tucson. From dealing out stories about heartbreak to producing “fluffier” content for a lifestyle broadcast, he learned what it takes to adapt to the many emotions the world of media can stir. Since 2017, Matt has dabbled in the culinary world of Tucson as well as San Diego, California from time to time.
If you’re in the mood for strange stories, head over to his pride and joy, wonkytimes.com. And in case you’re curious — yes, after all of this time, he still manages to roll a killer burrito.
