Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

  • Yes! General admission is free and open to the public, and we have a variety of entertainment and activities that are free! But to participate in the salsa tasting, the community mural, and some of the children’s activities, tickets are required.

    Salsa Sampler Ticket (8 tastings): $25 ($22 until 4/25/26)

    Ultimate Salsa Lover’s Pass (14-16 tastings): $45 ($40 until 4/25/26)

    Community Mural Square: $15 ($12 until 4/25/26)

    Children’s Zone Activity Tickets: $5 each

    Tickets can be purchased at the door or in advance: Buy Tickets Here

  • A Salsa Sampler Ticket includes a tasting card for 8 tastings (your choice from our slate of competitors), a bag of tortilla chips, a tray for your salsa samples, and an opportunity to vote for your favorite salsa.

    The Ultimate Salsa Lover’s Pass allows you to sample from every competitor at the event (14-16 tastings), a bag of chips, a tray for your samples, and an opportunity to vote for your favorite salsa.

  • This year 14 local restaurants will compete in a friendly salsa showdown judged by both the public and a panel of culinary experts.

    You get to vote! We’ll have “People’s Choice” QR codes posted that link to an online voting platform.

    A “People’s Choice” winner will be announced based on your votes, and the Judges’ Winners will be selected by our official judges’ tasting panel.

  • The event runs from 11:30 AM until 5:00 PM. The salsa tasting competition will conclude at 3:00 PM. We recommend arriving early to enjoy the full day of activities, including live music, salsa tasting, mural painting, and family fun!

  • Salsa Tasting Competition featuring 14+ local salsa purveyors

    Live Music on the Main Stage (Including Mariachi Internacional, Shades of Tjader, Dads of Jefferson)

    Additional Entertainment on the Neighborhood Stage (including Mr. Ryan, dance performances, Velvet Roses)

    Cold 21+ Beverages

    Community Mural

    Food Trucks and Local Vendors

    Kids’ Zone Activities

    Raffle with Amazing Prizes

Food, Drinks, and Family Fun

  • In addition to the salsa samples, a variety of food trucks will be onsite with food available for purchase.

    Craft beer, NA beer, cider & kegged cocktail offerings from 11 local vendors available for ages 21+ with ID.

  • Yes! The entire event is fenced, so once your ID is checked and you receive a wristband, you’re free to enjoy your drink anywhere within the event’s fenced area.

    21+ drink tickets can be purchased at the event for $10 each (1 ticket = 1 pour/can)

  • We have amazing raffle prizes, and we’ll be updating this page as our raffle packages are created!

    Raffle tickets can be purchased at the event.

    Winners will be drawn throughout the event. You must be present to win.

  • Yes! Hats are available for purchase with your salsa tasting tickets for pick up at the event!

    Select t-shirts and other items will be available at the event — while supplies last!

  • This year’s judging panel brings together respected voices in the food world! Our judges include:

    • Troy Johnson‍ ‍

      Troy is the owner of San Diego Magazine, a food critic and enthusiast, and host of the SD Happy Half Hour

    • YOU! - You have an opportunity to vote to determine the “People’s Choice” winner.

Logistics and Accessibility

  • This year there is a single entrance, located at the southeaster corner of the North Park Mini Park at North Park Way & 29th Street.

    Look for the ticket check-in stations and signage to start enjoying the festivities!

  • Salsa Fest takes place at the North Park Mini Park, located at 3812 29th Street, just behind the Observatory Theater in North Park.

    Public Transit:

    • Take MTS Routes 2,6,7 or 10 to University and 30th Street - just a short walk from the event.

    Parking:

    • A public parking garage is located right next to the event on 29th Street. Rates are just $1 per hour, with a $5 daily max - a convenient and affordable option!

    • Street parking is also available throughout the surrounding neighborhood.

  • Sunscreen, comfortable shoes, cash/card, and, if you plan to purchase 21+ beverages, your ID.

  • Pets are welcome; just keep in mind the event may be loud and busy.

  • Yes, portable restrooms and handwashing stations available onsite.

  • Salsa Fest is a rain-or-shine event!

  • Yes! We accept Cash, Credit Card, Venmo, and Apple Pay.

  • Yes!

Giving Back and Getting Involved

  • All proceeds from Salsa Fest directly support educational enrichment programs at Jefferson Elementary School in North Park — including art, dance, gardening, and more.

    Jefferson is a Title I public school serving a diverse community of learners.

    Funds are managed by Friends of Jefferson (FOJ), a volunteer-run 501(c)(3) nonprofit foundation dedicated to expanding learning opportunities for all Jefferson students.

    Learn more at: friendsofjefferson.org

  • Absolutely! Here are a few great ways to support Salsa Fest and Jefferson Elementary:

    • Make a tax-deductible donation at friendsofjefferson.org

    • Shop Salsa Fest merchandise here!

    • Spread the word to friends and family!

    • Follow and tag us on social media: @northparksalsafest

  • Visit our Sponsor page https://www.northparksalsafest.com/sponsors or email us at friendsofjeffersonnp@gmail.com