Barbacha Fest 2026 boosts tourism in El Mante, Tamaulipas

The Barbacha Fest 2026 was held in El Mante, Tamaulipas, featuring live music, a state‑wide barbecue competition and a final concert by the norteño group El Poder del Norte. The event was highlighted by Tamaulipas tourism secretary Benjamín Hernández Rodríguez, who noted the support of Governor Américo Villarreal Anaya in using such festivals to stimulate regional tourism, create jobs for merchants, service providers and entrepreneurs, and raise the profile of the state’s destinations.

The jury awarded cash prizes of 20,000, 15,000 and 10,000 pesos to the top three barbecue entries – Don Pillo (first), Tacos Beba (second) and La Suprema (third). Local officials, including El Mante mayor Patty Chío and mayors of nearby municipalities, attended the festivities.

“El Barbacha Fest no es solo una feria más en el calendario, es la prueba viva de que Tamaulipas sigue latiendo con fuerza, con sabor y con orgullo,” the tourism secretary said, emphasizing the event’s role in community wellbeing and economic dynamism.