Photo courtesy Velvet Taco Facebook page
Major Texas cities are famous for interstate feuds. Recently, the debate about who is worthy of the title of top taco town reached such a heated level between Austin and San Antonio (cough, San Antonio), that the city's mayors officially declared a taco truce in March. While Fort Worth wasn’t a part of the battle, almost any local could tell you we have the talent to at least throw a tortilla in the ring.
Just in time for Cinco de Mayo, the city has a chance to prove itself. Panther Island Pavilion is hosting the festival of all festivals: Fort Worth Taco Fest.
Produced by Fort Worth Weekly, the fest will include tacos from 20 of the area’s best restaurants, live music, beer and margaritas. Stay tuned for a list of restaurants and food trucks – the Eventbrite page teases a full list on April 20.
A panel of celebrity judges will honor vendors in categories like best traditional taco, best presentation, best tortilla, and best in show.
Here's a peek at the event timeline:
11 a.m. - VIP entry
Noon - General Admission entry
11 a.m. - 5 p.m. - Taco Sampling
5:30 p.m. - Winner Announced
5:30 p.m.- 9 p.m. - Music starts featuring performances by Latin Express and mariachi bands
If you want to be a VIP taco taster, you will have to fork up (just kidding, no forks here) $50. Tickets include exclusive VIP-only entry an hour early so you get first dibs on tacos. You also get two complimentary drinks, a swag bag, VIP Bar and VIP bathrooms. Don't underestimate the latter.
General admission is a little easier on the budget at just $30, or $25 if you snag one before April 20. These tickets include entry into The Shack for the festival, concert and free taco sampling. But, you'll have to buy all of your booze.
Act fast. Taco Fest is capping attendance at 3,800. Check back here for a full list of vendors.