Forget about the early bird special: Taco Bell is redefining retirement with a new concept that’s sure to make folks say “yo quiero!” The fast-food giant is launching “The Cantinas,” an innovative “early retirement community” that’s less about rocking chairs and more about rocking out to a laid-back lifestyle.
Set to debut in San Diego on August 17–18, 2024, The Cantinas is a weekend getaway that promises to let anyone 21 and over live their best retiree life, no AARP card required. It’s like a theme park for the “old at heart,” where you can trade your 9-to-5 grind for a slice of that sweet, sweet retirement pie, complete with a side of nachos.
Taylor Montgomery, Taco Bell’s U.S. Chief Marketing Officer, spilled the beans on the concept: “There’s a common misconception that retirement unlocks the life you’ve been waiting for. We don’t think you should have to wait until 55 to live the life you’re craving”. Preach, Taylor!
So what’s on the menu at this retirement fiesta? Picture this: early morning tee times, afternoon aerobics (because those Crunchwrap Supremes aren’t going to work themselves off), and heated matches of America’s favorite geriatric sport – pickleball. And of course, there’s plenty of Taco Bell fare to fuel your faux-retirement adventures.
But here’s the kicker – you’ll need to be a member of Taco Bell’s rewards program to snag a spot in this paradise. Talk about exclusive! Weekend Memberships, priced at $150, include overnight accommodations and full access to amenities, dining, and entertainment. For the commitment-phobes, there’s a $50 Day Pass option.
This isn’t Taco Bell’s first rodeo in the world of experiential marketing. In 2019, they opened a Taco Bell-themed hotel in Palm Springs, complete with hot sauce packet pool floats.
The Cantinas is clearly tapping into the booming “experience economy,” where millennials and Gen Z are trading material possessions for Instagram-worthy moments.
So, whether you’re a burnt-out 25-year-old dreaming of early retirement, or a 55-year-old who’s young at heart, The Cantinas offers a chance to live más and stress menos. Just remember, what happens at The Cantinas, stays at The Cantinas – unless, of course, you decide to share it on TikTok.
Mark your calendars for July 16 at 12 p.m. ET, when tickets go on sale.
In the immortal words of… well, probably someone at Taco Bell: “You’re never too young to be old.” Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a sudden craving for a Crunchwrap Supreme and a round of shuffleboard.