My Nana’s Best Tasting Salsa Challenge

2019 marked the 35th year of the My Nana's Best Tasting Salsa Challenge. An annual fundraiser that benefits the Arizona Hemophilia Association. I have attended the event 3 times, each at a different locations in the valley. The first time at Tempe Beach Park, then in Phoenix at Steele Indian School Park and now at Sloan Park in Mesa. This year was great because of the location. Sloan Park is the perfect venue for the festival. There is plenty of space, places to sit down, shade if you want it, and tons upon tons of salsa vendors with room to grow! Tickets are $15 dollars the the gate on the day of the event. I got tickets for just under $10 - thanks to Groupon. Salsa contestants can enter in three different categories - mild, hot, and "anything goes". So as an attendee you can expect to sample salsas ranging the spectrum: smoky chipotles, fruity ones featuring mango, pineapple, and even cranberry salsa, too. As well as, salsas that are so hot you'll swear your face could melt off - save those few for the bravest among your group. To enjoy all the salsa samplings, you get access to an unlimited supply for chips brought to you by friendly volunteers at the chip stations located throughout the event. I'd recommend bringing an extra $1 to purchase a tray for your chips and salsa. It'll be one of the best investments you'll make all day. I was too busy trying over 40 salsa vendors, but the event also offers a morning 5k Run, Margarita Mix-Off, Music Stage, and Kids Zone if you need even more activities to enjoy.