Every May, Extreme Festival & Events transforms the Village of Baytowne Wharf at Sandestin Golf and Beach Resort into the Gulf Coast’s most spirited fiesta — and this year is no exception. The 13th Annual Tequila & Taco Fest returns on Saturday, May 16, 2026, bringing together the best tacos, the finest tequilas, and an energy that simply cannot be matched anywhere on the Emerald Coast.
Recognized as the second longest-running Tequila & Taco Fest in the United States and a Gold Medal winner for Best Event in Walton County, this award-winning festival has earned its place as a beloved spring tradition for locals and visitors from across the Southeast. With a history of sellouts, early ticket purchases are strongly encouraged.
From 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM, more than 30 top taco vendors will fire up their grills and compete for the prestigious title of Best Taco in Northwest Florida, with a $4,250 total prize purse on the line — including a $2,500 grand prize for first place. Guests enjoy unlimited taco tastings as they make their way through every booth, while judges score each entry on taste, presentation, and texture. The Best Margarita Competition adds even more flair, with both judge and People’s Choice awards up for grabs.
Beyond the competition, guests can explore 40 tequila tasting tents offering unlimited tequila and margarita tastings, enjoy imported beers, and dance to live music and a mariachi band all afternoon. Thrill-seekers can test their limits in the Macho Nacho Eating Contest and the fiery Muy Caliente Pepper Eating Contest — each offering a $250 prize to the bravest competitor. Show off your festival style in the Best Dressed Contest for another shot at $250. Face painting and interactive activities round out a celebration the whole family can enjoy.
For those looking to elevate the experience, the exclusive Fast Pass Party Pack offers VIP perks including a pre-party at Ara Rooftop inside Hotel Effie from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, skip-the-line access, premium spirit tastings, drink specials, and an after-party back at Ara starting at 4:00 PM.
Planning to make a weekend of it? Book your stay with My Vacation Haven and enjoy exclusive discount rates for festival guests. A special thank you to the major sponsor, The Zen Companies Inc., for making this year’s event possible.
A portion of proceeds benefits the Fisher House of the Emerald Coast, supporting military families in their time of need — making every taco and every sip mean just a little bit more.
Tickets are available now at efestevents.com.
