Writer Shoshana Leon

Photography Courtesy of R Entertainment

[dropcap]W[/dropcap]ith our beautiful weather and diverse culinary scene, the Valley is an ideal spot for food and drink festivals for every taste — from wine and beer to chocolate and barbecue. But one food emerges as one of the most popular with Arizona festivalgoers.

Americans eat an estimated 4.5 billion tacos each year. That number is set to increase this year with the debut of a new festival in Scottsdale that highlights not only tacos but also tamales and tequila.

Taco Fest at Salt River Fields will delight fans of the Southwestern fare Saturday, April 4 at Salt River Fields at Talking Stick, offering up a variety of food, drink and entertainment options.

“Taco Fest at Salt River Fields will deliver one big delicious party to celebrate tacos, tamales and tequila wrapped in an entertainment experience,” says Dave Dunne, general manager at Salt River Fields. “We’re delighted to expand the menu and invite people inside the stadium for a day of food, fun and good times.”

Attendees may choose from a variety of $3 tacos from more than 30 restaurants, food trucks and chefs. Several options will be available, including traditional beef, chicken and pork as well as vegetarian varieties and even some unique, sweet flavors. Several savory and sweet tamales may also be sampled.

Participating vendors that will be showcasing their tacos and tamales include Red Fire Cookery, Taco Head, Los Sombreros, International Truck of Tacos and Mas Tacos. Attendees, who will have an opportunity to vote for their favorites, may also purchase margaritas, beer and other tasty libations during the event.

General admission for Taco Fest at Salt River Fields is $12. For an additional $20, attendees can experience a tequila tasting with samples from several brands. A Primo ticket for $80 includes food and drink tickets as well as access to an exclusive lounge.

In addition to food and drink, several types of entertainment will also be on tap throughout the event.

Experienced dancers will be teaching attendees how to tango with free lessons. Meanwhile, stilt walkers, aerialists, jugglers and other costumed performers from Day of the Dead Circo will also be roaming the venue. Lucha Libre wrestling will provide yet another source of colorful entertainment for guests to enjoy.

Attendees are also encouraged to dress up their pooches for a chance to win fun prizes in a tiny dog beauty pageant. And, for the more daring taco enthusiasts, there will even be a hot chili pepper eating contest.

From the authentic Mexican fare and festive beverages to the slate of fun activities, Taco Fest at Salt River Fields is sure to become an Arizona festival favorite.

saltriverfields.com/taco-fest

Taco Fest at Salt River Fields

Saturday, April 4 | 11 a.m.–7 p.m. | Salt River Fields at Talking Stick | 7555 N. Pima Road, Scottsdale | $12+ | saltriverfields.com/taco-fest