The 31st Annual Mariachi Extravaganza is just around the corner, and excitement is building as 1,300 mariachi musicians and directors prepare to gather in San Antonio for three full days of extraordinary performances. A record-breaking 55 mariachi groups will take the stage at the Lila Cockrell Theatre December 4–6, filling the venue with unparalleled talent, passion, and musical excellence.
The festival officially kicks off on Thursday, December 4, with the highly anticipated National Vocal Competition Semifinals. The celebration continues on Friday, December 5, with the National Group Competition Semifinals, where the finest student ensembles from across the nation will showcase their artistry and showmanship.
The best of the best will advance to The Finals on Saturday, December 6, culminating in the Grand Finale Concert featuring the world-renowned Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán alongside the newly crowned National Competition winners. It promises to be an unforgettable weekend honoring tradition, culture, and the next generation of mariachi excellence.
The group competitions will begin at 1 PM with the Middle School category, followed by performances from the High School division, and concluding with the College/University finals. At the end of the evening—approximately 10 PM—the Middle School and High School finalists, along with the College/University winners, will be announced. Below is a schedule subject to change:
Competition wristbands are required for entry into all events and may be purchased at the Lila Cockrell Theatre Box Office beginning one hour prior to the start of the competitions and throughout the duration of each event. Each wristband grants access to all three days of competitions. Gold wristbands in the VIP section are available for $50 each, and general admission wristbands are $30 each.
Tickets to the Mariachi Extravaganza Concert can be purchased on Ticketmaster.com.
Special thanks go out to all mariachi directors for the tremendous work you’ve done in preparing your students and encouraging their participation in this year’s Extravaganza. We also extend our gratitude to the parents, families, friends, staff and volunteers whose support makes these performances possible. Finally, we offer heartfelt appreciation to our sponsors—KHS Alianza Académica, H-E-B, Raising Cane’s, College Possible, the Freeman Coliseum, CULTIVAR and Casa Garcia’s. Your support contributes to the continuation and success of this music festival and we look forward to seeing everyone and celebrating our beautiful culture very soon.
