Southern Arizona’s flavorful fundraiser returns on Sunday, August 31. The Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge will transform El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort, into a tasting ground of epic proportions.

Now in its 13th year, the event blends culinary showmanship, cultural celebration, and community advocacy into one vibrant evening. Over 30 chefs and mixologists will compete for Best Salsa, Best Tequila Cocktail, and Best Taco.

A Flavor-Packed Evening of Entertainment

The challenge offers unlimited samplings of more than 70 original creations. Guests can expect everything from bold tacos to inventive cocktails.

Alongside the flavors, the event brings high-energy entertainment:

• Lucha Libre wrestling presented by Rockstar Wrestling
• Performances by Mariachi Innovación, Ballet Folklorico Los Mextucaz, and guitarist Eduardo Costa
• Live painting from local artists
• Meet-and-greets with participating chefs and bartenders
• $2,000+ in raffle prizes and artisan giveaways

Frank Powers will serve as the emcee and wrestling host throughout the night.

Event Details and Tickets

General Admission is $100 and includes unlimited tastings. VIP Admission is $135 and includes early entry at 5 p.m., a tequila toast, and access to the VIP After-Party Lounge.

The event begins at 6 p.m. for general admission ticket holders.

Guests must be 21 or older to attend. Purchase tickets at saaca.thundertix.com. Use code “EARLYBIRD” by July 25 for a 10% discount.

Make it a weekend with a stay at El Conquistador, where exclusive event rates start at $159 per night. Book with Group Code SAC829.

Why This Event Matters

Proceeds benefit the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance (SAACA). The organization funds art therapy for veterans and seniors, educational arts programs in schools, and festivals that celebrate regional heritage.

“We believe food is one of the most powerful forms of artistic expression and cultural storytelling,” said Da’Lice Shepard, SAACA’s Director of Marketing and Programs. “This event is about celebrating that creativity while directly funding year-round programs that uplift local artists.”

Meet the Participants

This year’s lineup includes:

• Dante’s Kitchen & Cocktails – Pineapple Margarita & Prime Rib Taco
• The Roasted Chile – Green Chile Cookies & Green Chile Kahlua Fudge
• White Stallion Ranch – Grilled Pineapple Roasted Poblano Salsa, Pineapple Mezcal Cocktail, & Pork Belly Al Pastor Taco
• The Barnyard Crafthouse & Eatery – Salsa Naranja, Melon Margarita, & Baja Pork Taco
• POPPED Artisan Popcorn – Variety of Artisan Popcorn
• Tortilleria Arevalo – Green and Red Chile Tomatillo Salsa & Shredded Beef Tacos
• Humo Cocina Mexicana – Salsa Fresca, Verde Salsa, Horchata Margarita, & Pollo and Rajas Taco
• Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen – Verde Tatemada Salsa, Cucumber Margarita, & Al Pastor Taco
• AtEaseCookz – Jefita’s Salsa, Paloma Cocktail, Quesabirria Taco, & Calabacita Crisp
• Westbound and Tap & Bottle – Tequila Cocktail
• GAP Ministries – Grilled Lemonada Cocktail & Steak and Eggs Taco
• La Chingada Cocina – Menu TBD
• Hot Flash Chile Products – Roasted Green Chile Butter
• Dirty T Tamarindo – Chamoy-Coated Candies
• Scratching the Plate – Mansana Bandera Salsa, Bloody Maria Margarita, & Conejo en Jardin Taco
• Tucson Chefs – Mango Flame Salsa & Magenta Margarita
• St. Cruz Restaurant – Peach Surprise Salsa & Backyard Carnitas Taco
• Ole Cocktail Co. – Paloma Cocktail
• El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort – Guajillo Espresso Salsa, Hibiscus Conquista, & Octopus Verde Taco
• Isa Bey – Mediterranean Salsa

For more information, visit saaca.org/salsatequilataco.

Love Tucson food? So do we. That’s why our stories are free to read — and focused on the chefs, farmers, and restaurants that make Tucson so delicious.
👉 Get exclusive perks & support local with the Foodie Insiders Club and learn how to eat local year-round.