I imagined going to the Tacos and Tamales Festival in Las Vegas would be sunny and full of delicious tacos. Well, I imagined one part of if correctly the tasty tacos. We had an unusual day of rain here in the desert. Despite the unexpected downpour, the spirit of adventure beckoned me and my friends to the Tacos and Tamales Festival, a vibrant celebration of culture and cuisine.
Arriving at the festival grounds, the aroma of sizzling meats and spices fills the air making me forget it is cold and rainy. Colorful tents line the park, offering a tempting array of tacos, drinks, churros, ceviche, and tamales, from traditional classics to innovative fusion creations.
Queso Birria
At first, it was overwhelming because I couldn’t decide on what I wanted to eat. As my friends got their wristbands to do the alcohol tasting tents I landed my eyes on the Queso-Birria Stand.
This stand had it all! Queso-Birria, Elote, Duritos, Churros, Tacos, Quesadilla, and a bunch of Jugos. Along with a cute little lady with a karaoke machine yelling TACOS over the stereo. It added to the ambiance. I ordered my Queso Birria and waited a few minutes taking in the scene. Then I heard my name called and laid my eyes on a nice greasy cheesy Birria taco.
This Queso Birria taco was really good! It had the perfect amount of crisp to it, with plenty of cheese and Birria soaked into the tortilla. The meat was delicious as well! By this time the rain was pouring.
Drink Stations
No umbrellas in hand, we laughed and talked, each raindrop adding to the sense of camaraderie among everyone. Watching people buy blankets to turn into panchos was quite comical.
Undeterred by the weather, crowds of taco enthusiasts huddle under makeshift shelters, eagerly sampling the culinary delights and drinks. Music drifts through the air, adding to the festive atmosphere as people taste test tacos and drinks, their spirits undampened by the rain.
We made our way to the first Drink Tasting tent to take shelter from the rain. My friends tried the drinks they offered. Most of the tents were different versions of seltzers and beers. It’s just like my opinion man but they should have a whole tent dedicated to fancy Micheladas! So I was not enthused by the drink options.
Carne Asada Street Tacos
As they finished their drinks and the rain subsided we made our way to another taco truck. They bought some carne asada street tacos which were pretty good and affordable!
The same food truck also sold these puffy tacos. I did not get a chance to try it but if we go back next year I will try that puffy taco first.
Ceviche and Churro
As they finished up their tacos I spotted a seafood truck. I ordered some Ceviche and a churro! We struck up a conversation with the guy running the truck and he showed us his dog Pancho which a vendor was selling. Which sent us on another adventure to find these doggies’ Panchos.
Summarized Snack Ratings
Quesa Birra
Drink Stations
Carne Asada Street Tacos
Ceviche
Churro
Between bites, we explored the festival grounds, admiring the food and browsing stalls selling handmade crafts. Despite the rain, the energy is infectious, and the carnival on the other side echoes through the park as you revel in the shared experience with your friends.
As the evening wore on and the rain began to subside, we found ourselves happily bidding farewell to the rainy Tacos and Tamales Festival, bellies full and hearts warmed by the memories made on this exceptionally rainy day in Las Vegas.
You can find the whole video on my TikTok or Instagram. Comment below or tag me on social media if you have tried any of these snacks! Tell me which one is your favorite. #edamamabean_ (Insta) or @edamamabean (tiktok)
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