Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge
Sunday, September 6, 2026
Labor Day Weekend
In its 18th year, the Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge returns as a bold expression of Southern Arizona’s culinary and creative energy. Hosted by Arts State Arizona at El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort, this one-night experience brings together the region’s top chefs, mixologists, and artists for an evening where flavor, culture, and community take center stage.
On Sunday, September 6, guests will explore a vibrant showcase of more than 40 local restaurants and beverage innovators, each presenting their most imaginative salsas, tacos, and cocktails. Designed as a spirited competition, the event invites attendees to sample freely and cast their votes for the standout flavors of the night—making every guest part of the experience.
Beyond the tastings, the atmosphere unfolds into something truly immersive. Live music sets the tone while artists create in real time, and moments of high-energy lucha libre-style wrestling add an unexpected edge to the evening. It’s a dynamic environment where culinary craftsmanship and artistic expression collide.
At its core, the Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge reflects Arts State Arizona’s commitment to elevating creativity as a vital part of everyday life. By bringing together food, art, and performance, the event highlights the people and perspectives that shape the region’s cultural identity.
Whether you’re drawn by bold flavors, live experiences, or the opportunity to connect with the creators behind it all, this is a night designed to engage the senses and celebrate the spirit of Southern Arizona.
Eat. Sip. Vote. Experience.
Dates & Times
Sunday September 6, 2026
VIP – 5:00-8:30pm
GA – 6:00-8:30pm
Tickets
VIP Tickets $135 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 access offers an elevated and more immersive way to experience the Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge. With entry beginning at 5:00 PM—one hour before General Admission—guests can enjoy a more relaxed pace, connect directly with chefs and mixologists, and be among the first to explore the evening’s culinary highlights.
Enjoy unlimited tastings from 30+ of Southern Arizona’s top culinary talents, featuring inventive salsas, standout tacos, and handcrafted cocktails that push flavor in exciting new directions.
As the night unfolds, the experience expands beyond the plate. Live music, artists creating in real time, and a live lucha libre wrestling showcase woven throughout the evening bring an added layer of energy and cultural vibrancy to the event.
Beginning at 6:00 PM, the VIP Lounge opens—offering a dedicated space to recharge and enjoy specialty libations and curated bites in a more private setting.
VIP tickets include all General Admission benefits, enhanced with early access and exclusive experiences designed to deepen your connection to the flavors, talent, and atmosphere of the night.
General Admission Tickets $100 Each
General Admission Entry Begins at 6:00 PM
This is a 21+ event
General Admission includes full access to the Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge from 6:00–8:30 PM.
Guests will enjoy unlimited tastings from 30+ local restaurants and beverage partners, featuring a wide variety of salsas, tacos, and handcrafted cocktails. Attendees can sample across all competitors and cast their votes to help decide the People’s Choice winners.
Admission also includes access to all live entertainment throughout the evening, including music, live artists, and a lucha libre wrestling showcase.
A high-energy night of flavor, creativity, and community—all included.
Location
El Conquistador Tucson
A Hilton Resort
10000 N Oracle Rd, Tucson, AZ 85704
The event takes place indoors within the banquet rooms and foyer spaces at the resort
Nestled in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains, we’re close to the Saguaro National Park and some of the top hiking spots in Tucson. Spanning 50 acres, our resort features a spa, tennis courts, outdoor pools, a waterslide, and several dining options. Visit the championship El Conquistador golf course, a short drive away.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE RESORT HERE
Labor Day Staycation Deal
Turn Your Night Into a Getaway
Turn your evening into a complete getaway at El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort. Event guests can take advantage of special room rates starting at $201 per night—making it easy to relax and fully immerse yourself in the experience.
Stay just steps from the Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge—skip the drive, extend the celebration, and unwind in a scenic desert setting after an unforgettable night of flavor, music, and culture.
Rooms are limited and available for a short time, so we recommend booking early to secure your stay and make the most of your weekend.
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 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.
Participating Competitors
Participating Purveyors Coming Soon
2025 Winners
2025 CHALLENGE WINNERS
Best Agave Spirit
Judges’ Choice Winner – Bacanora Cola Blanca – Bacanora Cola Blanca
People’s Choice Winner – Breakthru Beverage – Don Julio 70th Anniversary
Best Ready To Drink Cocktail
Judges’ Choice – VMC Paloma
People’s Choice – VMC Paloma
Best Salsa – JUDGES’ CHOICE
Judges’ Choice – 1st Place – Ranch House Grill & Brewery – Watermelon Serrano Salsa
Judges’ Choice – 2nd Place – White Stallion Ranch – Grilled Pineapple & Roasted Poblano Salsa
Judges’ Choice – 3rd Place – Lindy’s on 4th – Truffle Salsa Macha
Best Salsa – PEOPLE’S CHOICE
People’s Choice – 1st Place – Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen – Verde Tatemada Salsa
People’s Choice – 2nd Place – Barnyard Crafthouse – Salsa Naranja
People’s Choice – 3rd Place – GAP Ministries – 90 Miles North of the Border
Best Tequila Cocktail – JUDGES’ CHOICE
Judges’ Choice – 1st Place – La Chingada Cocina – Beso de Sandia Margarita
Judges’ Choice – 2nd Place – Dante’s Kitchen + Cocktails – Bikini Bottom Pineapple Yuzu Margarita
Judges’ Choice – 3rd Place – Saffron Indian Bistro – Tastes Like I’m Not Going to Work Tomorrow
Best Tequila Cocktail – PEOPLE’S CHOICE
People’s Choice – 1st Place – Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen – Cucumpari Margarita
People’s Choice – 2nd Place – Tohono Chul Garden Bistro – Watermelon & Cucumber Tequila Smash
People’s Choice – 3rd Place – Saffron Indian Bistro – Tastes Like I’m Not Going to Work Tomorrow
Best Taco – JUDGES’ CHOICE
Judges’ Choice – 1st Place – La Chingada Cocina – Taco Vaquero
Judges’ Choice – 2nd Place – Scratching the Plate – Conejo en Jardin
Judges’ Choice – 3rd Place – Lindy’s on 4th – Smoked Brisket Birria Mole Taco
Best Taco – PEOPLE’S CHOICE
People’s Choice – 1st Place – Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen – Al Pastor & Pineapple Taco
People’s Choice – 2nd Place – El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort – Octo Verde Taco
People’s Choice – 3rd Place – Humo Cocina Mexicana – Taco Rajas with Pollo
2024 Winners
2024 CHALLENGE WINNERS
Best Agave Spirit
Judges’ Choice Winner – Gran Coramino Reposado
People’s Choice Winner – Gran Coramino Reposado
Best Ready To Drink Cocktail
Judges’ Choice – Ray Ray’s Sonoran Spirit Tea
People’s Choice – El Jimador
Best Salsa – JUDGES’ CHOICE
Judges’ Choice – 1st Place – Dante’s Fire – Carrot Habanero Salsa
Judges’ Choice – 2nd Place –
Barnyard Crafthouse and Eatery – Salsa Chiltapin
Judges’ Choice – 3rd Place – TIE
Casa Asada Taquería y Cervecería – Salsa Negra
El Conquistador Tucson – Habanero Peach Salsa
Best Salsa – PEOPLE’S CHOICE
People’s Choice – 1st Place – Isa Bey LLC Isa Bey Mediterranean Salsa- Hot
People’s Choice – 2nd Place – The Garden Bistro at Tohono Chul Fermented Fresno Chile-Fresh and Charred Tomato Salsa
People’s Choice – 3rd Place – Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen Amelia’s Molcajete
Best Tequila Cocktail – JUDGES’ CHOICE
Judges’ Choice – 1st Place – Saffron Indian Bistro – “No money? No honey!”
Judges’ Choice – 2nd Place – Tap and Bottle North – Tres Loco Coco
Judges’ Choice – 3rd Place – Redbird Scratch Kitchen + Bar – Redbird Margarita
Best Tequila Cocktail – PEOPLE’S CHOICE
People’s Choice – 1st Place – Fork & Fire Smokehouse + Taproom Blue Agave Bonfire
People’s Choice – 2nd Place – Tie
Barnyard Crafthouse and Eatery South of the Barn Mai Tai
Dante’s Fire Peach & Nopales Margarita
People’s Choice – 3rd Place – Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen Yecora Night
Best Taco – JUDGES’ CHOICE
Judges’ Choice – 1st Place – Dante’s Fire – Nashville Hot Chicken Taco
Judges’ Choice – 2nd Place – Barnyard Crafthouse and Eatery – Baja fish taco
Judges’ Choice – 3rd Place – TIE
Scratching the Plate – Duck season-Rabbit season
Casa Asada Taquería y Cervecería – Caramelo
Best Taco – PEOPLE’S CHOICE
People’s Choice – 1st Place – Barnyard Crafthouse and Eatery Baja Fish Taco
People’s Choice – 2nd Place – Ranch House Grill and Brewery Casa Rancho Brisket Taco
People’s Choice – 3rd Place – Redbird Scratch Kitchen + Bar Quesabirria
2023 Winners
2023 Winners
People’s Choice 1st Place Salsa
El Rustico
Salsa Nortena con Chicharrones
People’s Choice 2nd Place Salsa
Goyita’s
Hot Salsa
People’s Choice 3rd Place Salsa
Tucson Tamale Company
Colette’s Medium
Judge’s Choice, 1st Place Salsa
Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen
Amelia’s Molcajete Salsa (TIE)
Dante’s Fire
Habanero Mango Passionfruit Salsa (TIE)
Judges’ Choice, 2nd Place Salsa
Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen
Roasted Salsa
Judges’ Choice, 3rd Place Salsa
El Rustico
Salsa Nortena con Chicharrones
People’s Choice, 1st Place Tequila Cocktail
The Lodge at Ventana Canyon
Watermelon Sour Patch Kids Margarita
People’s Choice, 2nd Place Tequila Cocktail
Dante’s Fire
“What’s Up Doc?” Carrot Margarita
People’s Choice, 3rd Place Tequila Cocktail
Fork & Fire Smokehouse + Taproom
Charred Margarita
Judges’ Choice, 1st Place Tequila Cocktail
Saffron Indian Bistro
Spicy Sonoran Desire
Judges’ Choice, 2nd Place Tequila Cocktail
The Hacienda at the Canyon
Strawberry Jalapeno Shrub
Judges’ Choice, 3rd Place Tequila Cocktail
The Lodge at Ventana Canyon
Watermelon Sour Patch Kids Margarita (TIE)
Dante’s Fire
“What’s Up Doc?” Carrot Margarita (TIE)
People’s Choice, 1st Place Taco
Fork & Fire Smokehouse + Taproom
Smokehouse Brisket Taco
People’s Choice, 2nd Place Taco
El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort
Dulce de Leche Taco
People’s Choice, 3rd Place Taco
Seis Kitchen
Chilled Shrimp Taco
Judges’ Choice 1st Place Taco
El Conquistador Tucson, A Hilton Resort
Dulce de Leche Taco
Judges’ Choice 2nd Place Taco
Dante’s Fire
Pork Belly Taco
Judges’ Choice, 3rd Place Taco
Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen
Amelia’s Quesabirria Taco
People’s Choice, Grand Reserve Tequila Tasting
Canción Tequila
Reposado
Judges’ Choice, Grand Reserve Tequila Tasting
Borderland Spirits
Batuq Bacanora Reserva
2019 Winners
2019 Winners
People’s Choice 1st Place Salsa
Santiago’s Mexican
Salsa Santiago
People’s Choice 2nd Place Salsa
Cafe a la C’Art
Roasted Salsa Negra
People’s Choice 3rd Place Salsa
Americano Mexicano
House Chunky Red Salsa
Judge’s Choice, 1st Place Traditional Salsa
Casino Del Sol
Salsa Molcajete
Judge’s Choice, 2nd Place Traditional Salsa
Peppersauce Kitchen
Roasted Pepper Salsa
Judge’s Choice, 1st Place Alternative Salsa
The Gallery Golf Club
Pepita Salsa
Judge’s Choice, 2nd Place Alternative Salsa
Cafe Botanica
Smoked Nopal Salsa with Lemon
People’s Choice 1st Place Tequila Cocktail
Benson City Grille
Cilantro Jalapeno Lime Margarita
People’s Choice 2nd Place Tequila Cocktail
The Lodge at Ventana Canyon
Mango Tamarind Tequila Cocktail
Judge’s Choice 1st Place Tequila Cocktail
Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort & Spa
Mojito Margarita
Judge’s Choice 2nd Place Tequila Cocktail
Ritz Carlton Dove Mountain
The Copperhead
People’s Choice 1st Place Taco
Santiago’s Mexican
Seared Short Rib Taco
People’s Choice 2nd Place Taco
Peppersauce Kitchen
Garlic Chicken and Arugula Taco
Judge’s Choice 1st Place Taco
Peppersauce Kitchen
Garlic Chicken and Arugula Taco
Judge’s Choice 2nd Place Taco
Santiago’s Mexican
Seared Short Rib Taco
Grand Reserve Tequila Tasting 1st Place
Roger Clyne’s Mexican Moonshine Tequila
Reposado
Most Creative Display
Santiago’s Mexican
