10th annual Tamale Festival returns to Atascadero May 1-2
Live music, dance groups, and contests planned
– The City of Atascadero will host the 10th annual Tamale Festival in the Sunken Gardens and downtown Atascadero on May 1 and May 2.
The event will begin May 1 with “Fiesta Friday” from 5 to 9 p.m., offering tamale vendors and early purchasing opportunities ahead of the main event. Live music will be provided by the Zongo All-Star Band.
The main event will take place on May 2 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Organizers reported more than 100 vendors will participate, including more than 20 tamale vendors from across California offering a range of options.
Entertainment will include emcee Francisco Ramirez, Ranchero artist Manuel Enrique, Mariachi Azteca de Oro, Mariachi Lo Mejor de Jalisco, Ballet Folklórico Flor de Luna dancers, Paso A Posito Folklorico Dance group, and the Brass Mash band. Additional activities will include bounce houses, obstacle courses, bungee jumps, face painting, balloon animals, and a photo booth featuring a miniature donkey named “Waffles.”
The “Best Tamale Contest” will be held, with winners announced around noon on May 2. A Chihuahua pet and costume contest is scheduled for 2 p.m., followed by a tamale-eating contest at 3 p.m. Both contests will take place on the steps of City Hall.
The event is free to attend. Food, beverages, activities, and merchandise will be available for purchase.
Proceeds from adult beverage sales will benefit the Central Coast Zoo Foundation.
More information and a full entertainment schedule are available at www.VisitAtascadero.com/TamaleFest
