Tucson’s Top Bartenders and Chefs Return for a Spirited Night of Competition, Creativity, and Community Flavor
Get ready for a night of bold flavors, creative cocktails, and culinary artistry as the 2025 World Margarita Championship returns on Saturday, June 14, 2025, at the breathtaking Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort and Spa, set against the scenic backdrop of the Sonoran Desert. Presented by the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance (SAACA) and Tucson Originals Restaurants, this beloved annual celebration brings together the region’s most talented bartenders and chefs for an unforgettable evening of spirited competition and community connection. Guests will embark on a flavorful journey, sampling dozens of handcrafted margaritas and expertly paired culinary creations while enjoying live entertainment, interactive arts experiences, and the vibrant energy of Tucson’s thriving local food and beverage scene. Whether you’re a margarita connoisseur, a culinary enthusiast, or just looking for the perfect way to celebrate Father’s Day weekend, this is Tucson’s can’t-miss summer tradition—where you help crown the next World Margarita Champion.
A One-Night-Only Culinary & Cocktail Experience
Back for Father’s Day Weekend, the World Margarita Championship brings together Tucson’s best chefs and mixologists for a high-energy, interactive tasting competition. Guests will sample original margarita creations and perfectly paired small bites from over a dozen local restaurants and bars, all competing for the coveted Judge’s Choice and People’s Choice awards for Best Margarita and Best Bite.
Event Highlights Include:
Judge’s Choice & People’s Choice Awards
Margarita Tastings from Tucson’s top mixologists
Culinary Pairings from Tucson Originals Restaurants and guest chefs
Live Music & Interactive Arts Experiences
Meet & Greet Access with the culinary creators behind the competition
Raffle Drawings for over $2,000 in local gift cards and prizes
Event Details
Date: Saturday, June 14, 2025
Time:
VIP Admission: 5:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Includes early entry, a welcome tequila toast with live music.
General Admission: 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM
Includes all tastings and entertainment.
Location:
Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort & Spa
245 E. Ina Rd., Tucson, AZ 85704
Ticket Information
$100 VIP Admission
One-hour early entry at 5:30 PM
Welcome tequila toast
All general admission benefits
$80 General Admission
Access to margarita tastings, culinary pairings, and entertainment
Tickets Available Now at: https://saaca.thundertix.com/
Event Details – World Margarita Championship – SAACA
Turn It Into a Weekend Getaway
Make it a Father’s Day weekend to remember with a staycation at Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort & Spa. Enjoy upscale accommodations surrounded by 80 acres of Sonoran Desert beauty, with special room rates starting at $118++ for event attendees.
Why It Matters
Proceeds from the World Margarita Championship directly support the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance (SAACA) and its mission to strengthen community connections through the arts, culture, and culinary experiences. At a time when creative industries face increasing challenges—from funding shortages to rising costs of producing accessible community programs—the arts need more support than ever. By attending this event, guests aren’t just enjoying Tucson’s vibrant food and beverage scene—they’re helping to sustain year-round educational initiatives, cultural festivals, live performances, and artist opportunities that keep Southern Arizona’s creative economy alive and thriving. Every ticket sold helps ensure that the arts continue to inspire, connect, and bring people together for generations to come.
Reserve Your Spot Today!
Tickets are available now at saaca.thundertix.com/. Sip Boldly. Vote Proudly. Celebrate Tucson’s Flavor.
About SAACA
The Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance (SAACA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the community through arts, culture, and creativity. Through innovative collaborations, SAACA creates dynamic programs and events that promote cultural engagement, economic development, and artistic excellence.
About Tucson Originals
Formed in 1999, the Tucson Originals is Tucson’s premier group of independently owned, fine dining, casual and neighborhood restaurants. They promote the value of Tucson’s independent restaurants and support Tucson’s culinary diversity. Tucson Originals have been the driving force and model for similar groups all across America who are working to preserve the culinary spirit of their communities. With the rapid rise of chain eateries, this alliance has helped many of Tucson’s signature restaurants survive and thrive.