Get ready to raise your forks—and your expectations—as Taco Wars, the region’s largest and most flavorful taco and salsa competition, returns to downtown Shreveport on Saturday, April 26, 2025. Now in its latest and most ambitious iteration, this free-to-attend, day-long celebration promises not just culinary delights, but a showcase of culture, community spirit, and small business empowerment.
Organized by the Prize Foundation and presented in partnership with Modelo and Maestro Dobel, Taco Wars 2025 will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. just outside the historic Shreveport Municipal Auditorium. The event highlights the flavors and traditions of the Hispanic community and is designed to elevate local taquerias while bringing thousands of visitors together for a day of fun, food, and festivities.
More Than a Food Festival
While tacos are undoubtedly the main attraction, Taco Wars is about much more than tortillas and toppings. “It’s with great pride and honor that my Prize colleagues and I get to host Taco Wars,” said Gregory Kallenberg, Executive Director of the Prize Foundation and founder of the event. “The Hispanic community is an important pillar of our region, and we love that we get to put a spotlight on their foods and their culture. What’s better than spending a day celebrating with tacos, margaritas and live music?”
This year’s event includes 14 competing taquerias from Northwest Louisiana and East Texas, live performances including Estrellas de Mexico—a renowned mariachi band—and a Kid’s Area with family-friendly activities. It’s a full-day experience that blends entertainment with economic impact.
Competition with Purpose
At the heart of the event are two coveted titles: the Golden Taco (Best Taco) and the Golden Molcajete (Best Salsa). The Best Taco will be judged by a panel of celebrity food judges, while the public plays a key role by voting on the Best Salsa after enjoying free samples.
But it’s not just a contest of flavor—Taco Wars has a powerful economic angle. Last year, over $128,000 was paid out to participating taquerias and food vendors, 90% of which are independent, locally owned small businesses. That’s more than prize money—it’s a direct infusion of cash into the community’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Participating Taquerias for 2025
This year’s flavorful lineup includes:
- Amigos 70th Street Tacos
- El Novillo Meat Market
- La Potranca
- La Villa Taqueria
- Maria’s Kitchen
- Mi Meza Latin Cuisine
- Mi Mercadito
- Nicky’s Mexican Restaurant
- Ramirez Mexican Restaurant
- Taqueria El Eden
- Taqueria Flores
- Taqueria La Reyna Del Sur
- Taqueria Mi Palmar
- Taqueria San Miguel
These businesses will not only feed hungry attendees but also build brand recognition and loyal customer bases that can extend well beyond the event.
A Win for Economic and Cultural Vitality
Taco Wars exemplifies how cultural festivals can be leveraged as strategic economic drivers. By blending entertainment with local entrepreneurship, the event continues to raise the profile of Shreveport’s downtown corridor while offering a platform for small businesses to thrive.
In addition to the culinary battles and live entertainment, attendees can enjoy tequila and beer tastings, Modelo beer gardens, and sweet treats, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
As Shreveport continues to reimagine its downtown through food, music, and creative enterprise, Taco Wars stands out as a spicy symbol of what’s possible when culture and commerce come together.
—BIZ Magazine