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Join the Masters of the Margarita at this New Austin Celebration

Much more than the State Capital of Texas, Austin’s one-of-a-kind culture, seemingly endless live entertainment options, and flourishing culinary scene make it the perfect spot for a fall getaway. The Live Music Capital of the world is home to more than 250 music venues and two of the most prominent music events on the planet: South by Southwest and the Austin City Limits Festival. Don't leave the city without experiencing the vibrant nightlife at hot spots such as Small Victory, Garage, and The Roosevelt Room.

 

The Austin Margarita Festival is a brand new festival to the Austin area, and it will take place October 28 at the Austin American Statesman building. This 21 and over event features more than 20 margarita flavors for sampling. Patrons can fill their complimentary cups with margarita flavors ranging from Lots of Chocolate to Jalapeno Pepper. The event has a block party type atmosphere complete with bands and DJs from across Texas playing rock, pop, Mariachi, and more. Bars and restaurants from around the area will compete in The Best Margarita Competition. Patrons can sample drinks from each contestant and then vote for their favorite one. The winner receives $500, a trophy, and bragging rights until next year. Hungry patrons will find a variety of food vendors selling snacks and meals for every palate. This year’s event will support the Sisters Network Inc. with $.60 from each Grapefruit Groupie Margarita sold going to the charity. We interviewed Jay Proctor, a representative for the event to learn more about this grand celebration of libations.

 

RAL: Tell me a little bit about the event.

JP: With Austin’s reputation for being the Live Music Capital of the World, we could only think of one thing that might add to that status – MARGARITAS!  This year, the Austin Margarita Festival will grace the downtown area, just across the Congress Avenue Bridge, on the Austin American-Statesman’s riverside property. The 21+, one-day event is a reflection of Austin’s plethora of eclectic styles and artistry; only this diversity shows through in the 20+ Margarita Flavors, including the Bourbon St. Hurricane, Grapefruit Groupie and Jalapeno Pepper.  Served frozen or on the rocks, the endless choice of mouthwatering margaritas are served against the backdrop of Austin’s beautiful skyline. Adding to the relaxed vibe of this Margarita Mecca, you can sip to the sounds of live bands and DJs, and to the complement of great food!  

 

RAL: How long has the event been running?

JP: This is the inaugural Austin Margarita Festival. However, it is planned to be an annual event.  

 

RAL: How many annual participants do you draw?

JP: This is the first year, but we are anticipating a crowd of around 5,500 attendees.

 

RAL: What demographic does your event attract? Children? Families? Couples?

JP: Festival attendees must 21 years of age and older, kids are not allowed to attend the festival. Austin Margarita Festival is for adults looking to enjoy a day festival in the city tasting margaritas, dancing to live bands, eating great food and having fun in the October breeze.  

 

RAL: What makes this event unique?

JP: Austin Margarita Festival is unique because no other event has 20+ margarita flavors available to enjoy in one location. Additionally, the festival features the Best Margarita Competition with Joe's Crab Shack, Taco & Tequila, ATX Cocina, Morelia Mexican Grill, and Hopdoddy are pouring their signature mixes to competition for the title of having Austin's Best Margarita!

 

RAL: Take me through a day at the event. What can I expect as an attendee?

JP: As an attendee, one can expect to be in a margarita wonderland. Colorful display and variety of margarita flavors are whimsical. Upon entrance, attendees receive six drink tickets, a souvenir cup, a festival map to locate the margarita flavors, learn the band line, etc. (each margarita (5 oz) is one drink ticket). The Best Margarita Competition starts at 2:00 pm and features five Austin area bars/restaurants pouring their signature margaritas. Patrons can taste all five of the entries and vote via text message for their favorite. Entertainment includes Mariachi de Austin, White Ghost Shivers, Bayou City Brass Band, and the band Soundtrack (mariachi, 30s swing, funk, and Top 40s music).    

 

RAL: What can an attendee expect to find for local lodging?

JP: Local lodging is available across the street from the festival at the Embassy Suites Hotel, and the Hyatt Regency Hotel. Both hotels offer partnership discounts.

 

RAL: Does the event support a particular cause in the community?

JP: Austin Margarita Festival is the finale event for Go Pink. Go Pink is the breast cancer awareness campaign for October presented by Entercom Austin and their affiliated radio stations, Mix 94.7, Majic 95.5, 95.9 RnB, and Talk Radio 1370.  

 

RAL: Why should people come to your event?

JP: Attending Austin Margarita Festival will be just as memorable for margarita lovers, as wine and food festivals are for their connoisseurs.

 

For more information about the Austin Margarita Festival, please visit the event website.