Now Accepting Entries

The Mariachi Extravaganza National Vocal Competition is the most prestigious mariachi vocal competition in the U.S. For nearly three decades, it has been recognized for launching careers, awarding scholarships and prizes, and creating performance opportunities that help young artists grow and thrive.

Since it was added to the Mariachi Extravaganza in 1997, the competition has become one of the most competitive and inspiring events of its kind, giving students a platform to perform on a world-class stage in front of a live audience in the heart of downtown San Antonio, Texas – the birthplace of the U.S. mariachi festival movement.

What is it?

The vocal competition is open to students up to the age of 25 from across the U.S. Students may register as part of their mariachi group or as independent vocalists. Participants showcase their talent before a live audience and a panel of esteemed judges.

Grand Champion Vocal Winner – Receives scholarships, travel opportunities, and prizes totaling $15,000+, plus the honor of opening for the world-renowned Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán in concert. Trophies, medals, scholarships and grants are awarded to first, second and third place winners in all categories.

Competition Rounds

Qualifying Round (Sept. 1 – Oct. 1)

• Students submit a video audition with their registration.
• Semifinalists are chosen in four categories:
  • Elementary (PreK–5th grade)
  • Middle School (6th–8th grade)
  • High School (9th–12th grade)
  • College/University (up to 25 years old)
• Note: First-place winners from the Mariachi Extravaganza in Las Vegas automatically qualify for semifinals.

Semifinals – December 4

• The top 40 vocalists compete live at the Lila Cockrell Theatre in San Antonio before an audience and panel of judges.

Finals – December 6

• Top vocalists in each category perform before Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán, who select the Grand Champion Vocal Winner.

Important Dates & Deadlines

• September 1 – Registration Opens
• October 1 – Vocal Competition Deadline
• October 31 – Semifinalists Announced
• December 4 – National Vocal Competition Semifinals
• December 6 – National Vocal Competition Finals
• December 6 – Grand Champion Winner opens for Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán

Tickets & Registration

• Rules and Regulations
• Register Here
• Mariachi Vargas Concert Tickets
• A Taste of the Mariachi Extravaganza, Boerne, TX

Previous Grand Champion Vocal Winners (2015–2024)

• 2024 — Lorraine Garza (Grulla/Roma, TX)
• 2023 — Yasmine Dueñes (Las Vegas, NV)
• 2022 — Nayelli Peña (Rio Grande City, TX)
• 2021 — Melanie Olivarez (La Joya, TX)
• 2020 — Ashley Treviño (McAllen, TX)
• 2019 — Kaylee Bucio (Salt Lake City, UT)
• 2018 — Nathania Flores (Edcouch, TX)
• 2017 — Jizelle Rodriguez (Kyle, TX)
• 2016 — Kassandra Juarez (Rio Grande City, TX)
• 2015 — Alexa Michelle Posas (Rio Grande City, TX)
• 2015 — Kamryn Ramirez (McAllen, TX)

A full list of winners dating back to 1997 is available at mariachimusic.com.

About the 31st Annual Mariachi Extravaganza

The 31st Annual Mariachi Extravaganza takes place December 4–6, 2025 at the Lila Cockrell Theatre on the San Antonio River Walk.

This year’s event includes:

• 3 full days of competitions
• Workshops with top artists
• Concerts featuring the nation’s best student mariachi musicians and special guests

Sign up for our monthly newsletter at mariachimusic.com to stay updated.

Special thanks to our sponsors:
KHS Alianza Academica • H-E-B • Bexar County Commissioner Tommy Calvert