World Margarita Championship
June 2026
Raise a glass—Tucson’s most spirited culinary showdown is back! The World Margarita Championship is the city’s ultimate cocktail and culinary competition, where top chefs and mixologists bring their creativity to life in a high-energy evening filled with flavor, artistry, and community. Guests sip, savor, and vote for their favorites as Tucson Originals Restaurants pair signature bites with bold margarita creations that redefine what this iconic drink can be.
This isn’t just a tasting—it’s an immersive cultural celebration. Live music sets the mood, interactive arts experiences bring creativity to every corner, and chef meet-and-greets connect you to the culinary minds behind the magic. Presented in partnership with Tucson Originals Restaurants, the Championship is more than a competition—it’s a tradition that unites craft, culture, and community while supporting Art State Arizona’s mission to make the arts essential to everyday life. Admission is ticketed, with both General Admission and VIP options available.
Dates & Times
June 2026
VIP Admission opens at 5pm
General Admission doors open at 6pm
Tickets
VIP Tickets TBA
INCLUDES EARLY ENTRY TIME AT 5PM & ACCESS TO EXCLUSIVE VIP LOUNGE
**21 And Over Event** Tickets include all General Admission benefits, one-hour early access to the event, a welcome Tequila Toast, and a VIP After Event Lounge.
General Admission Tickets TBA
ENTRY TIME 6PM
Tickets include libation, and menu samplings from 30 local professional and emerging restaurants and chefs, with custom salsa and tequila cocktails in over 15 categories. Includes access to live entertainment all night.
Location
Location TBA
Partners & Sponsorship
Sponsoring an Art State Arizona event is more than brand visibility—it’s an investment in the creative future of our state. Our events bring together diverse audiences, cross-sector partners, and local artists to activate public spaces, fuel economic impact, and build community through culture. As a sponsor, your organization becomes a visible champion of innovation, equity, and well-being—demonstrating a clear commitment to the power of the arts to transform lives and strengthen Arizona’s cultural and economic vitality.
Special Thanks to our current event Sponsors and Partners
Volunteer
Art State Arizona offers unique opportunities to get involved as a volunteer at our festivals, exhibitions, and community programs. Volunteer shifts are posted 30 days before each event, giving you the chance to sign up early and find a role that matches your interests—whether it’s welcoming guests, supporting artists, helping with setup, or keeping the energy flowing throughout the day. It’s a great way to connect with the creative community, gain hands-on experience, and be part of bringing Arizona’s cultural events to life.
Participate as a Restaurant, Mixologist or Purveyor
Bring the Heat. Earn the Crown.
Ready to compete? Register today to showcase your culinary creativity in the World Margarita Championship. All participating chefs, mixologists, and purveyors will receive food and beverage credits from Shamrock Foods, plus a cash stipend from Art State Arizona to help offset participation costs.
Fill out the registration form to secure your spot, or contact Da’Lice Shepard at dalice@artstateaz.org to learn more about the event and how to get involved.
Participating Competitors
The star of the night: margaritas, reimagined in ways you’ve never tasted before. From bold ingredient pairings to elevated classics, Tucson’s best bartenders showcase the artistry of mixology. Paired alongside, Tucson Originals Restaurants and guest chefs serve up signature bites designed to complement each cocktail—savory, spicy, and unforgettable. VIP guests also enjoy a private dessert reception with live music to cap off the evening. More details coming in May 2026.
2025 Winners
2024 CHALLENGE WINNERS
2025 World Margarita Championship — Winners
Judges’ Choice – Best Bite (tie)
- Gap Kitchen — Fried Guacamole & Duck Totopa
- Humo Cocina Mexicana — Mole Enchilada Bites
People’s Choice – Best Bite
- Bashful Bandit Barbecue — Smoked Beef Cheek Tacos
Judges’ Choice – Best Margarita
- Chef Roderick LeDesma — Desert Blossom Margarita
- Bisbee Breakfast Club — Blackberry Blaze
- Third Place (tie)
- Dante’s Kitchen + Cocktails — Orange Dreamsicle Margarita
- Gap Kitchen — Grilled & Chilled Margarita
People’s Choice – Best Margarita
- Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen — Margarita del Sol
- Redbird Scratch Kitchen + Bar — Mr. Pepino
- Scratching the Plate — Pomegranate de Tigre
