Explore the Flavors of Mexico at Mercado on Fifth’s Tequila & Mezcal Tasting Event
Quad Cities nonprofit hosts inaugural tasting event in Downtown Moline on May 2, 2025
MOLINE, IL March 21, 2025 - Mercado on Fifth is hosting a unique celebration of culture and community with its inaugural Tequila & Mezcal Tasting on Friday, May 2, 2025, from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. The event will be held at Mercado on Fifth (423 12th St.) in downtown Moline, with an exclusive VIP hour from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
Organizers have curated an evening filled with unique tequila and mezcal tastings, delicious culinary pairings from Mercado vendors Mi Oaxaca, Creative Signature Cuisine and Delicias & Sabores; live music from local band Grupo Nuevo Estilo; and a visual walk through the history of Mercado as it looks toward its 10-year anniversary in 2026. Attendees will embark on a sensory journey all while supporting Mercado’s mission to celebrate Latin culture and provide economic opportunities in the Quad Cities.
Tequila & Mezcal Tasting Experience
Breakthru Beverage and G&M Distributors will educate guests on the production of tequila and mezcal, from agave cultivation to the distillation process. Guests will learn about the different types of these iconic spirits, their distinct flavors, aging processes, and tasting notes.
A Creative Touch: Live Art with Featured Artist, Victor Granados
Mercado is thrilled to invite local folk artist Victor Granados to demonstrate traditional paper mache piñata-making at the event. The art piece created during the event will be raffled off at the end of the event. Granados, who has previously collaborated with Mercado on several projects, most recently designed the public altar and a special skull float for 2024’s Día de los Muertos celebration. His work brings family together, with his wife, Yessy, and their children contributing to Mercado’s many artistic endeavors.
Exciting Raffle Prizes and Mercado Merchandise
Event attendees will have the chance to win exciting raffle prizes, including:
A season pass for a family of four to Mercado’s 2025 summer season
A custom paper mache art piece created by Victor Granados
Gift certificates to local Latin restaurants
Full bottles of tequila and mezcal featured at the event
Mercado merchandise, including t-shirts, hats, and tumblers, (also available for purchase just in time for the opening day of Mercado’s outdoor public market on May 23, 2025).
Ticket Options:
Mercado on Fifth is offering four ticket tiers for this exclusive event:
$30 per person (advance ticket): General admission, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
$40 per person (at the door): General admission
$50 per person (VIP ticket): Early access from 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM, exclusive food pairings, extra time with experts, and two (2) raffle entries
$100 per person (Sponsor ticket): Includes VIP access, two (2) raffle entries, Mercado t-shirt, recognition as an event sponsor, and promotional gratitude at the event and beyond
RSVP Now!
Tickets can be purchased through Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/colores-del-mercado-a-tequila-mezcal-experience-tickets-1296181165759?aff=oddtdtcreator
About Mercado on Fifth:
Mercado on Fifth fosters economic opportunity and cultural preservation by providing a platform for Hispanic entrepreneurs, artists, and small business owners in the Quad Cities. Through its weekly open-air markets, seasonal celebrations, and year-round business development programs, Mercado empowers minority entrepreneurs with access to capital, bilingual business training, and technical assistance. The organization also strengthens community identity by hosting traditional music, dance, and artisan vendors, ensuring Hispanic heritage remains visible and celebrated. Since its founding, Mercado has helped launch and support more than 65 businesses while providing paid opportunities for cultural practitioners. Its programs connect generations, offering hands-on workshops, performances, and mentorship that engage youth and reinforce cultural pride.
For more information and updates on the event, visit Mercado on Fifth's website and follow us on Facebook @MercadoOnFifth.