Colores del Mercado: A Tequila & Mezcal Experience

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

Event attendees will have the chance to win exciting raffle prizes, including:

Mercado on Fifth is offering four ticket tiers for this exclusive event:

 

Tickets can be purchased through Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/colores-del-mercado-a-tequila-mezcal-experience-tickets-1296181165759?aff=oddtdtcreator&fbclid=IwY2xjawJP-BtleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHeUoAC4jxmm7inXAGfQXTJP8FIeJ42srR7nTbUR1myL0Y-jW4b9lD9jLaw_aem_B9rwKGkbtHYGAJYQv9CfOw 

 

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.