FAQs 

What happens in case of bad weather? 

Taco Takedown is a rain-or-shine event. In the event of severe weather, the event will move to the covered parking structure located at the intersection of Ironworks Drive and Third Street (the 2024 event location).

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How do I sign up for the Reyes Coca-Cola Jalapeño Eating Contest?

Think you can handle the heat? Sign up for the Reyes Coca-Cola Jalapeño Eating Contest beginning at 2:00 PM at the Henry Dorrbaker's Game Desk. Participation is limited to the first eight contestants, and all participants must be 18 or older and sign a waiver.

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Contestants should report to the Corazon Fiesta Stage by 3:30 PM, with the competition beginning at 4:00 PM. The winner will be determined by who eats the most raw jalapeños by weight, with a tiebreaker round if necessary.

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1st Place: Custom Jalapeño Trophy + $100 Geronimo Hospitality Gift Card
2nd Place: $50 Geronimo Hospitality Gift Card
All contestants receive a free Beloit Taco Takedown T-shirt.

 

FOOD & VENDORS

Will I be able to try every food truck? 

This year, each vendor is limited to offering up to three menu items, with at least one competition taco featured on their menu. Limiting menus helps keep lines moving so guests can sample tacos from more vendors throughout the day. Come hungry!

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How are vendors judged?​

Each vendor selects one taco to be entered into the competition. A panel of local celebrity judges will sample and score each entry to determine the Judge's Choice Champion. Vendors also compete for the People's Choice award, voted on by event guests.

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Who are the celebrity judges?

The 2026 Beloit Taco Takedown Celebrity Judges Panel features a group of respected community leaders, culinary experts, and local ambassadors who will sample and score each vendor's featured taco to determine the Judge's Choice Champion and award the coveted Championship Belt.

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2026 Celebrity Judges:

• Pete Woodkey – Betting on Beloit contractor and TV personality

• Mark Henderson – Community leader and founder of Mark Henderson's Weather Hub

• Chef Bobby Walker Jr. – Dual Executive Chef of Merrill & Houston's Steak Joint & Velvet Buffalo

• Camilla Castaneda – Miss Beloit's Teen 2026

• Audrey McManigle – Miss Beloit 2026

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How do I vote for my favorite vendor?

Taste as many tacos as you like, then vote for your favorite. Each truck is numbered. Use these numbers to remember your top choice when filling out the QR code digital form at the event. The vendor with the most votes will win the People's Choice Champion Chain. VOTING CLOSES AT 7 PM.

 

When are winners announced?
People's Choice and Judge's Choice winners will be announced on stage at approximately 7:15 PM, followed by a photo opportunity with the champions.

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Do food vendors accept cash or card?

Bars will accept cash and cards. Most food vendors will accept cards, but payment methods may vary by vendor. Please come prepared and bring cash if needed.

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VIP PATIO EXPERIENCE 

What’s included in the Maestro Dobel VIP Experience?

The Maestro Dobel VIP Experience is a premium upgrade designed for guests looking to elevate their Beloit Taco Takedown experience.

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Presented by Maestro Dobel Tequila, the world's first Cristalino tequila and one of Mexico's most awarded tequila brands, this exclusive experience includes:

• Four featured VIP cocktails crafted with premium spirits
• An exclusive VIP swag bag
• Front-row views of the live music and jalapeño eating contest
• Access to a private bar with premium beverage options
• VIP-only seating and lounge space on Henry Dorrbaker's scenic riverfront patio
• Surprise VIP perks and experiences throughout the day

 

This is a 21+ experience.

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If the event is free, why should I purchase a Maestro Dobel VIP Experience ticket?

While general admission to Beloit Taco Takedown is free, the Maestro Dobel VIP Experience offers exclusive access to one of the event's best experiences. Enjoy a private riverside setting, premium cocktails, VIP-only amenities, front-row entertainment access, and special perks throughout the day while taking in the taco competition, live music, and festivities.

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Is the VIP area open all day?

Yes. The Maestro Dobel VIP Experience is open throughout the event and provides a dedicated space to relax, enjoy premium beverages, and take in the day's entertainment.

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Where is the Maestro Dobel VIP Experience located?

The VIP area is located on the patio lawn outside of Henry Dorrbaker's, 605 Third Street, Beloit, WI.

 

What’s the refund policy for VIP tickets? 
All VIP ticket sales are final. No refunds will be issued.

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ADMISSION 

Are there ID or age requirements?
Taco Takedown is open to all ages. Guests who are 21+ must present valid ID to receive an alcohol wristband upon entry.

 

Can I leave and come back?
Yes! Taco Takedown is a free event and re-entry is allowed. Please note that all guests are subject to search upon entry and re-entry. ​​

 

AMENITIES 

Will Henry Dorrbaker’s be open? 
Yes! Henry Dorrbaker’s Pub & Play will be open during the event, operating normal hours from 11 a.m. to 12 a.m. We're talkin' duckpin bowling, mini golf, vintage arcade games and a giant bar with pub fare, craft cocktails and brews.​

 

Will there be restrooms?
Yes. There will be portable restrooms and handwashing stations available for guests. 

 

Is parking available? 
Yes! Free parking is available in Ironworks Campus lots, with additional street parking nearby. 

 

Will there be security? 
Yes. Security will be present throughout the event. All bags are subject to inspection before entry. No backpacks or bags larger than 9”x10”x12” will be permitted. Our staff and security team will be on hand to assist with any safety concerns or emergencies.

 

Can I bring my service animal? 
Service animals and service animals-in-training are welcome. For everyone’s safety, we encourage the use of a vest, harness, cape, or leash that clearly identifies your animal’s role. 

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Is Taco Takedown handicap accessible? 
Yes. Taco Takedown is ADA-compliant and accessible. 

 

Will photos or videos be taken during the event? 
Yes. Event photographers and videographers will be on-site. By attending, you consent to having your image captured for promotional use. 

 

Are there sponsorship opportunities available? 
Absolutely! If your company is interested in sponsoring Taco Takedown, please reach out to info@beloittacotakedown.com.

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