Sabores de Tucson
America's Best Mexican Food Festival
Late Spring 2026 TBA
Step into the heart of Mexico without leaving Tucson. The Sabores de Tucson: Best Mexican Food in America Festival is more than a food event—it’s a full-sensory journey across Mexico’s diverse culinary regions. Hosted at the breathtaking Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa, this immersive evening celebrates the artistry of food, culture, and music, curated by over 30 of Southern Arizona’s most talented chefs and culinary partners.
Organized into four regional tasting hubs—Northern, Central, Pacific Coast, and Southern Mexico & Yucatán—each area highlights authentic dishes, flavors, and traditions, paired with live music, art, and storytelling. From smoky carne asada to complex moles, vibrant ceviches, and cochinita pibil, the festival is a showcase of culinary innovation rooted in centuries-old heritage. Proceeds benefit Art State Arizona and the Tucson International Mariachi Conference, ensuring that every ticket fuels community programs, cultural education, and creative opportunities that strengthen our region. This is not just a festival—it’s a movement that connects food, culture, and people in unforgettable ways.
Dates & Times
Late Spring 2026 TBA
VIP Admission opens at 5pm
General Admission doors open at 6pm
Tickets
VIP Tickets $135 Each
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 $100 Each
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
Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa
The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa
3800 E Sunrise Dr, Tucson, AZ 85718
The event takes place indoors within the banquet rooms and foyer spaces at the resort
Nestled in the stunning foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains, the Westin La Paloma Resort offers breathtaking desert views, lush amenities, and a resort-style experience that elevates this culinary celebration. Onsite parking is available, and rideshare drop-off zones will be clearly marked. The venue is ADA-accessible, ensuring every guest can savor the evening with ease.
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 Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge. 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.
