Discover flavors and fun at Tucson’s Tamal & Heritage Festival | News

TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) – Casino Del Sol has announced the 20th Tucson Tamal & Heritage Festival will take place on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at the AVA Amphitheater.

This annual event is a cherished Tucson tradition, drawing more than 10,000 attendees each year to celebrate culture, flavor, and community. Admission and parking are free.

The festival will feature a wide array of tamales and other Southwest and Mexican delicacies from various vendors. Attendees can also shop for unique holiday gifts from artisan and farmers market vendors offering handmade crafts.

The festival’s highlight is the Tamal Contest, with community members and culinary experts judging entries in four categories: Traditional, Green Corn, Gourmet, and Sweet. Prizes range from $150 to $750.

To participate, contestants must be at least 18 years old and submit one dozen cooked tamales by 11 a.m. The contest starts at noon, and winners will be announced at 4 p.m.

Throughout the day, guests can enjoy live performances from Tejano acts, folklórico groups, Aztec dancers, mariachis, and Pascua Yaqui Tribe cultural dancers, celebrating the rich traditions and community spirit.