First-ever Taco Fest takes over Mississauga this weekend

Mississauga is about to get a major dose of spice this weekend as the first-ever Taco Fest arrives in Port Credit, bringing two days of tacos, live entertainment and Mexican-inspired food and drink to the waterfront.

The inaugural Mississauga edition of Taco Fest runs June 27 and 28 at Port Credit Memorial Park, marking the first time the popular festival has expanded into the city.

Organizers say tickets are selling quickly for the ticketed event, which features timed entry admission slots and is expected to draw large crowds throughout the weekend.

Festival-goers can expect more than 100 taco variations from over 20 participating vendors, including a mix of Toronto favourites and local offerings.

The lineup includes well-known names such as Inmigrante, Rancho Relaxo, Kong’s Hot Tacos — winner of Best Taco at Taco Fest Toronto in 2023 — and Mississauga-based Rick’s Good Eats, which is bringing its popular Indian fusion twist to the classic Mexican dish.

Other vendors include Balam, Big Jerk, Blissful Bites, Churros by Rebozos, La Barbacha Mexican, Lit Up Jerk, Pa’l Antojo, Palettamerica, Picante MX, Rebozos Taquería, Stick Shift Robata and Taco Loco.

Festival-goers will also be able to vote for their favourite taco as part of the Mississauga edition’s “Best Taco” competition.

In addition to food, Taco Fest will feature live mariachi music, salsa dancing, DJ sets, cocktails and interactive experiences spread throughout Port Credit Memorial Park.

Guests can also take part in a guacamole-making experience, sample from a hot sauce bar featuring more than 50 varieties, and explore tequila and mezcal tastings with over 30 selections.

Organizers say the festival will run from late morning into the evening each day, with doors opening around 11 a.m. and closing at 11 p.m. on Saturday and 9 p.m. on Sunday. Entry times are assigned with ticket purchases.

The festival is open to families earlier in the day, with guests under 18 permitted until 3:30 p.m. After that time, the event becomes 19+.

Children under four are admitted free, while youth aged 5 to 18 require a special ticket tier.

Tickets for Taco Fest Mississauga are available on the official event website, but organizers warn that availability is limited as demand continues to grow ahead of the debut event.

More information can be found at the official Taco Fest website.