Calling all masa maniacs: Tucson's annual celebration of the iconic, incredible tamale is this Saturday.
The 10th Annual Tucson Tamal and Heritage Festival at AVA Amphitheater, 5655 W. Valencia Road, will feature dozens of local artisans serving up our favorite green corn, red chile beef and sweet varieties. (Not to mention, the most incredible Indian fry bread, topped with cheese and rich red chile beef.)
Held every year at Casino del Sol, the event offers a great chance to connect with Pascua Yaqui culture through their food, as well as several performances by tribal groups. In addition to the live music and dance, there will also be contests and arts and crafts, all from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
To read more about this Tucson tradition, check out a feature by Ernesto Portillo here.
Here is the schedule from casinodelsolresort.com
OPENING PRAYERS
9:45AM – 10:00AM Maestro: David Rivera Capilla Señor de los Milagros
10:00AM – 10:45AM Pahkola Kolencia Dear Dancer will Bless the Festival following Maestro David Rivera
AVA MAIN STAGE
11:00AM – 11:30AM Danza Azteca Azteca Dances, Temo
11:40PM – 12:25PM Tierra Yaquí Tribal Yaqui Group
12:40PM – 1:25PM Alyssa Young Singer with a Band
1:35PM – 2:00PM Mariachi Del Sol Mariachi, Tradicional
2:10PM – 2:30PM Folklorico Tapatio
2:35PM – 3:00PM Folklorico Viva Performing Arts Center
3:05PM – 3:25PM Folklorico Tapatio
3:30PM – 3:45PM Destiny Olea Young Yaqui Tribal Singer
3:45PM – 4:15PM Tamal Fest Winner Announcements
4:15PM – 5:00PM La Familia Yucupicio Tribal Yaqui Group
Between performances DJ Kricket will play DJ music in between sets
