Tamale Fest Brings Heat to San Angelo This Saturday

SAN ANGELO, TX - Get ready to spice up your weekend with the Tamale Fest this Saturday, November 11, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the vibrant Pop Art Museum, 125 W. Twohig Ave. With a minimal one-time door charge of $5, attendees are in for a treat that includes unlimited Free Rein coffee, a taste of Los Gallos Mexican sweet bread, and a colorful Sarape Mexicano blanket to take home.

A Door Pass That Offers More Than Entry

The door fee unlocks a day filled with more than just savory bites. It's your ticket to a chance at winning enticing door prizes contributed by beloved local businesses like the Old Central Fire House, Casa Decor, and Free Rein Coffee. Each attendee not only enjoys the festive atmosphere but also becomes part of a lucky draw that could see them walk away with unique and locally-sourced prizes.

Savor the Variety: Tamale Vendors Galore

True to the festival's name, tamale vendors will offer a wide array of choices, ranging from traditional chicken and pork tamales to innovative jalapeño popper, and comforting bean and cheese varieties. The organizers have ensured that there will be three distinct vendors, allowing for a broad spectrum of tastes and textures to be enjoyed. Moreover, tamales will be available for purchase in bulk at competitive prices—making it perfect for stocking up ahead of the holiday season.

Vote for Flavor: People’s Choice Award

Attendees will play a crucial role at the festival by voting for their favorite tamale vendor. The coveted “People’s Choice Award” awaits the vendor whose flavors and textures win the hearts and palates of the festival-goers, adding a dash of competitive spirit to the festivities.

Festive Events and Fierce Competition

The Tamale Fest is not just about eating but also celebrating culture and community. At 2 pm, the air will fill with the vibrant sounds of the Lake View Mariachi band, adding a traditional musical backdrop to the day. At 3 pm, the atmosphere will turn competitive with a tamale eating contest. Those with a big appetite and a small entry fee of $25 can battle it out for bragging rights, a medal, and a $200 prize. The contest is open for on-the-day entries, but with a cap at 10 contestants, it’s first-come, first-served!

Stock Up for the Holidays

Tamales have long been a part of Thanksgiving and Christmas traditions in many households, and Tamale Fest offers a perfect opportunity to prepare for the season with locally-made delights that come with the warmth of San Angelo's community spirit.

Whether you're a tamale aficionado or new to this traditional Mesoamerican dish, Saturday's Tamale Fest at the Pop Art Museum is poised to offer a blend of flavors, fun, and festivities. So come one, come all, and be part of a tradition that tastes just as good as it feels.

Organizer Luis Urteaga will be on the LIVE! Daily News Show during the 4 p.m. hour on Wednesday, Nov. 7, 2023, to talk about the festival. Don't miss the live streamed news show on YouTube, San Angelo LIVE!, Facebook, and Twitter.