America's Best Mexican Food Festival
Saturday, August 8, 2026
America’s Best Mexican Food Festival is more than a culinary event—it’s a full-sensory journey through the rich, diverse regions of Mexico. Set against the stunning backdrop of The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa, this immersive evening brings together the artistry of food, culture, and music for an unforgettable experience.
Curated by 30+ of the Southwest’s most celebrated chefs and culinary partners, the festival invites guests to explore regionally inspired tasting experiences that showcase the depth and beauty of Mexican cuisine.
The event unfolds across distinct culinary regions—including Northern Mexico, Central Mexico, the Pacific Coast, and Southern Mexico & the Yucatán Peninsula—each brought to life through authentic dishes, live music, visual art, and cultural storytelling. From flame-grilled carne asada to complex, heritage moles, vibrant coastal seafood, and slow-roasted cochinita pibil, every bite tells a story rooted in tradition and innovation.
Presented in collaboration with Visit Tucson, this experience celebrates the powerful intersection of food, art, and culture.
More than a festival, this is a celebration of identity, heritage, and community.
Proceeds support Art State Arizona, helping fund vital cultural programs, arts education, and opportunities that sustain and elevate the region’s creative economy.
This is where flavor meets culture. Where tradition meets innovation. And where Tucson’s culinary spirit comes to life.
Admission is ticketed, with both General Admission and VIP experiences available.
Dates & Times
Saturday, August 8, 2026
VIP – 5:00-8:30pm
GA – 6:00-8:30pm
Tickets
VIP Tickets $150 Each
Includes Early Entry at 5:00 PM & Access to the Exclusive VIP Lounge (opens at 6:00 PM)
This is a 21+ event
VIP guests receive early access beginning at 5:00 PM, a full hour before General Admission entry at 6:00 PM—offering the opportunity to explore, taste, and engage with chefs and mixologists in a more relaxed setting.
Enjoy a first taste of America’s Best Mexican Food Festival with tastings from 30+ top chefs and culinary partners, alongside live music, immersive art, and cultural experiences representing the diverse regions of Mexico.
Beginning at 6:00 PM, VIP guests gain access to the exclusive VIP Lounge, featuring specialty libations and curated bites available throughout the remainder of the evening.
VIP tickets include all General Admission benefits, with added access and elevated experiences throughout the event.
General Admission Tickets $115 Each
Entry Begins at 6:00 PM
This is a 21+ event
General Admission guests receive entry beginning at 6:00 PM. Please arrive no more than 15 minutes prior to your scheduled entry time, as early line access will be restricted.
Step into America’s Best Mexican Food Festival and enjoy full access to an immersive evening of food, culture, and celebration.
Experience tastings from 30+ top chefs and culinary partners, alongside live music, immersive art, and cultural experiences representing the diverse regions of Mexico.
Explore regionally inspired tasting stations that bring the flavors, traditions, and creativity of Mexico to life—set against the stunning backdrop of The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa.
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.
Turn Your Night Into a Getaway
Turn your evening into a seamless getaway at The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa. Festival guests can enjoy a special rate of $144 per night, with the daily resort service charge waived—making it easier than ever to relax and fully enjoy the experience.
Stay just steps from America’s Best Mexican Food Festival, skip the drive, and unwind in a beautiful resort setting after an unforgettable night of food, music, and culture.
Rooms are limited and available through July 7, 2026 (or until sold out), so we recommend booking early to secure your stay.
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 be part of America’s Best Mexican Food Festival?
We invite chefs, restaurants, mixologists, and culinary partners to showcase their creativity at one of the region’s most anticipated food and cultural experiences. This is a unique opportunity to connect with a highly engaged audience, highlight your brand, and be featured alongside some of the Southwest’s top culinary talent.
All participating partners receive a cash stipend from Art State Arizona to support participation, along with promotional exposure across event marketing and media.
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.
