Rockin’ Taco Street Fest bringing food, music, lucha libre and more to Chandler

PHOENIX – If you’re into tacos and rock music – and who in their right mind isn’t? – Chandler is the place to be on Saturday.

That’s because the 13th Annual Rockin’ Taco Street Fest will take over Dr. A.J. Chandler Park in the East Valley suburb’s downtown area from noon to 9 p.m.

The event site is located at 178 E. Commonwealth Ave., near Arizona Avenue and Chandler Boulevard. Parking will be available for free at the downtown garages.

There won’t be an onsite box office, so tickets must be purchased online. All sales are final, as the festival will go on rain or shine.

More than 20 restaurants and food trucks will be selling tacos of all types all day long. Fresh fruit frescas, beer, margaritas, micheladas and more will also be available for purchase.

Organizers suggest bringing cash because some vendors may not take credit cards.

What’s the musical lineup for Rockin’ Taco Street Fest?

When you’re taking a break from the food and drink, you can check out live performances from four bands:

• 1-2:30 p.m.: Big Iron AZ (blues, country and rock).
• 3-4:30 p.m.: Sweet Mess (tribute to female rock legends, including Joan Jett, Heart and Aretha Franklin).
• 5-6:30 p.m.: High 90’s (alternative rock favorites).
• 7:15-8:45 p.m.: Bottoms Up (Van Halen tribute band).

There will also be DJ sets as well as taco and chili eating contests on the main stage.

Another highlight will be masked wrestlers battling it out in the lucha libre ring, with photo ops and autograph signings between matches.

“This year’s Rockin’ Taco Street Fest is shaping up to be our best yet,” Allen Royce, chief operating officer of event promoter Forty8 Live!, said in a press release. “We’ve worked hard to bring together an incredible lineup of food, entertainment and activities. Whether you’re here for the tacos, the music or the fun, we guarantee a memorable experience for everyone.”

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