It’s not your typical taco festival.

Expect attractions like bull riding, Latino music, a variety of food and crafts stalls, and naturally, beer at the upcoming Tacos and Beer Festival 2024, organized by the Ramona Chamber of Commerce on May 4.

The Chamber has partnered with Juan Larios of Rancho La Guadalupe for this occasion, which is set at the Ramona Outdoor Community Centre, located at 423 Aqua Lane.

“We noticed that the Latino demographic in our community felt underrepresented, hence we decided to host an event especially for them,” said Bob Krysak, president of the Chamber.

He estimated that Latinos make up about 40% of Ramona’s population.

“There will be bull riding, some heavy hitting bands, taco vendors and craft vendors for a variety of food, music and entertainment,” he said.

Krysak said the event is expected to attract between 1,500 and 2,000 people.

“We wanted to pump up our little taco fest,” said Laura Leeman, office manager at the Chamber. “All our previous fests have been pretty packed, so we wanted to revamp it and make it bigger and better.”

An event that consists of bull riding, music, and dancing is referred to as a jaripeo in Mexico. This tradition is common in the central and southern parts of Mexico, having presence in both rural communities and ranches.

Several bands, celebrated for their festive tunes, are scheduled to perform. These include La Septima Banda, Banda Zeta, Banda Tierra Surena, Group Zona Blindada, and Seis N Linea.

The event will also be featuring outstanding bulls from the ranch Rancho El Aguaje, owned by Sergio Pelayo, Jr. Located in Puerto Vallarta Jalisco, the ranch boasts of housing several million-dollar bulls.

In addition to this, over a dozen food vendors will be present at the venue.

“The cuisine is a blend, largely Mexican, offering everything from seafood and chips to funnel cakes and ice cream,” said Leeman.

“The primary beer on offer will be Modelo, alongside shots, given its popularity,” mentioned Krysak.

He also revealed that, despite there being numerous beer outlets, they would not be serving mixed drinks due to the high anticipated attendee numbers as well as the time and effort each mixed drink requires.

Moreover, there will be over a dozen craft vendors displaying an array of products such as jewelry, wooden arts, Western attire, and T-shirts.

“There will also be a face painter for the kids,” Leeman said.

Chamber officials are still seeking volunteers, specifically for the entry gate and to tend bar (must be over 21).

There are also sponsorships open at the $200, $400 and $600 levels.

Doors open at 1 p.m. Event hours are 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. General admission is $80, VIP passes $130, but will go up closer to the date of the event.

“All the money raised goes right back into the community, so we hope everyone comes out and has a good time,” Leeman said.

For more information, contact the Ramona Chamber of Commerce at 760-789-1311.