Talented mariachi musicians and vocalists are surrounded by thousands of Christmas lights that adorn the Rivercenter Mall Lagoon during performances that start at 6:00 p.m. It’s the Serenata en el Rio on the Riverwalk in the Rivercenter Center Mall Lagoon area off Commerce Street. The experience is similar to Plaza Garibaldi in Mexico City where mariachi groups and vocalists gather around and perform for audiences. The only difference is that it’s free and open to the public and tipping is not expected. The event offers locals the opportunity to officially welcome participating mariachi groups and vocalists who travel from as far away as Boston, Massachusetts to participate in San Antonio’s 17th Annual Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza. It’s a beautiful evening filled with the spirit of Christmas you’ll want to experience with friends, family and loved ones.

The Serenata en el Rio is part of San Antonio’s 17th Annual Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza. The 8-day mariachi music festival culminates with 2 concerts featuring the world renowned and Mexico City based Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlan. Tickets to see Mariachi Vargas at the Lila Cockrell Theater are available through Ticketmaster.com or 1-800-745-3000.