Downtown Phoenix will soon come alive with the flavors, sounds and traditions of Northern Mexico as the third annual Spirits of Mexico Festival returns March 21-22. Taking place from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Heritage Square, the two-day celebration invites the community to experience the rich culture, cuisine and craft traditions of Mexico — with this year’s event placing a special spotlight on the neighboring state of Sonora.
Produced by Imex Live Events and presented in partnership with the Consulate General of Mexico in Phoenix, Downtown Phoenix Inc. and the City of Phoenix Economic Development Department, the festival celebrates the traditions and entrepreneurial spirit of the region.
This year’s theme commemorates the 50th anniversary of Phoenix and Hermosillo becoming sister cities. The partnership has fostered decades of cultural exchange and economic collaboration, and the festival serves as a lively reminder of the enduring relationship between the two communities.
Throughout the weekend, visitors can explore an immersive lineup of experiences. Live music and traditional dance performances will energize the square while food trucks serve up regional favorites. Guests can also browse an Indigenous art and handcraft market showcasing artists and makers from Sonora and watch demonstrations of the iconic tortilla sobaquera, an oversized flour tortilla.
VIP programming offers a series of hands-on workshops, tastings and culinary demonstrations. Experiences include arts and crafts workshops inspired by Sonoran culture, mixology classes and guided tasting sessions featuring bacanora, tequila, sotol, raicilla, mezcal and craft beer. Guests can also attend grilling and cooking demonstrations led by Sonoran chefs.
Interactive activities developed in partnership with the Arizona Science Center blend education with cultural discovery, creating a fun and engaging environment for younger festivalgoers.
“The Spirits of Mexico Festival is a bridge connecting Arizona with Mexico,” festival producer Yazmin Quezada said. “We are proud to highlight Sonora, showcasing its rich traditions, flavors, and entrepreneurial spirit to Phoenix, and commemorating the milestone of 50 years of friendship between us and Hermosillo.”
General admission tickets are $15. VIP tickets, priced at $55, include entry to arts and crafts workshops, mixology tastings, grilling and cooking classes, as well as 10 sample tickets for the festival’s tasting area. VIP sessions run hourly throughout both days and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Learn more at Spirits Of Mexico Festival | Downtown Phoenix.
