[Editor’s note 08/21/2025: updated participant list, marked VIP tickets as sold out]
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 sold out.
The event begins at 6 p.m. for general admission ticket holders.
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
Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge (Photo courtesy of SAACA)
Jackie Tran is a Tucson-based food writer, photographer, culinary educator, and owner-chef of the now-closed food truck Tran’s Fats. Although he is best known locally for his work for Tucson Foodie, his work has also appeared in publications such as Bon Appétit, National Geographic, and the New York Times.
An adventurous foodie, he enjoys culinary experiences ranging from seasonal omakase to sloppily devouring green chili patty melts in his car afterhours. His favorite foods include aguachile, garlic noodles, and leftover fried chicken illuminated by the fridge light. His favorite drinks include morning micheladas, fireside imperial stouts, candle-lit negroni, and grassy mezcales.
Outside of food, he also loves playing musical instruments, karaoke, Tetris, Super Smash Bros. Melee, and petting Addie’s dog Spaghetti.
If you’d like to stalk him, visit his Instagram @jackie_tran_ or jackietran.com.
