Tamale Traditions
There’s something about the holidays in Boerne that just feels cozy — twinkling lights down Main Street, the scent of cinnamon and chili, and kitchens filled with laughter as families gather to make tamales.
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Artwork from Boerne Love.
The Heartwarming Holiday Tradition of Making Tamales in Boerne, TX
There’s something about the holidays in Boerne that just feels cozy — twinkling lights down Main Street, the scent of cinnamon and chili, and kitchens filled with laughter as families gather to make tamales.
I’ll be honest — I never even had a tamale until I moved to Texas. Growing up in New England, our holiday table looked a little different. So if you’re like me and new to this tradition, you might not realize just how special it is until you experience it yourself. In Texas, tamales are more than food; they’re tradition, love, and celebration wrapped in a corn husk.
A Texas Holiday Tradition
The tamalada — a tamale-making party — is a cherished tradition passed down for generations across Mexican and Texan families. Everyone has a role: soaking husks, spreading masa, adding rich fillings, wrapping, and steaming.
It’s not just about making a meal; it’s about making memories. You’ll find laughter, storytelling, and generations working side by side — grandparents teaching little ones, cousins chatting around the kitchen table, and friends dropping by for a taste of the finished product.
Join the Downtown Boerne Tamale-Making Class
If you’re like me and never grew up making tamales, this is your chance to jump in and learn the tradition right here in Boerne!
The Downtown Boerne Tamale-Making Class is a hands-on experience that turns a beloved Texas tradition into a fun family activity.
👩🍳 What to Expect:
- Learn step-by-step how to make authentic tamales
- Choose your favorite fillings and wrap your own
- Perfect for families, friends, or moms’ night out
- Take home a batch of tamales to steam and share
✨ Tip: Spots fill up fast — it’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season, Boerne-style.
Where to Find the Best Tamales in Boerne, TX
If you’d rather taste before you make, Boerne has some incredible local spots to grab fresh, handmade tamales:
1️⃣ Chilito’s Express
📍 826 Johns Rd, Boerne
Family-run and known for gourmet tamales year-round — from classic pork to creamy jalapeño chicken.
👉 Visit Website (opens in a new tab)
2️⃣ Mary’s Tacos
📍 518 E Blanco Rd, Boerne
A local favorite for breakfast tacos and fresh tamales. They sell out quickly around the holidays, so go early!
👉 marystacosinboerne.com (opens in a new tab)
3️⃣ Casa Amaya Pupuseria & Taqueria
📍 Near Main Street, Boerne
Serving flavorful tamales alongside pupusas and other authentic Latin dishes — great for family dinner or take-home meals.
Bringing It All Together
Whether you’re learning to make tamales for the first time like I did, or continuing a generations-old family tradition, there’s something deeply special about this ritual.
Tamales bring people together — through food, culture, and community. And that’s what Boerne is all about.
So this season, gather your family, roll up your sleeves, and join us for a (opens in a new tab)Downtown Boerne Tamale-Making Class (opens in a new tab) or pick up a dozen from a local favorite. Either way, you’ll taste the heart of Texas right here in Boerne.
Ready to Try It?
Join the (opens in a new tab)Downtown Boerne Tamale-Making Class (opens in a new tab) and start your own holiday tradition!
✨ Follow @BoerneLove for more local events, family fun, and small businesses to support this season.
Originally published by Boerne Love at www.boernelove.org/tamale-traditions.
