Congratulations to all participants of the 31st Annual Mariachi Extravaganza, and thank you to everyone who helped make the event such a success. The talent showcased on stage exceeded all expectations, delivering three unforgettable days of outstanding performances. Each year, the level of artistry continues to rise—and this year was no exception.
So what is driving this remarkable growth?
Cirilo Campos, Director of Mariachi at Texas State University in San Marcos, attributes the continuous improvement to social media, competitions, and increased access to live performances by top-tier artists.
“Mariachi music programs have experienced exponential growth over the past decade because of access to social media and exposure to great artists like Mariachi Vargas and other professional mariachi ensembles,” says Campos. “Social media has made it easier for students to be exposed to mariachi musicians and vocalists, and these videos become powerful learning tools.”
Michael Acevedo, Director of the UTSA Mariachi Program, agrees.
“This is 100% true,” says Acevedo. “Social media plays a crucial role in influencing students and helping them build connections that lead to new friendships and musical growth.”
Students participated in three days of competitive performances held on the big stage at the Lila Cockrell Theatre from December 4–6.
“I felt the competition created a positive and healthy environment,” says Campos. “The high school category is extremely competitive, but there was a strong sense of support among everyone. The Mariachi Extravaganza allows us to see what’s happening outside of Texas and learn from groups across the nation. It sets the national standard. Our goal is to elevate the music while staying true to tradition.”
Campos also emphasized the impact of live performances. “Seeing great artists in person is incredibly powerful and plays a major role in helping students grow and develop into strong musicians.”
“I’ll add to that,” says Acevedo. “When I watch Mariachi Vargas, I’m studying everything—the arrangements, movement, transitions, and performance details. I’m enjoying the show, but I’m also learning at the same time.”
Beyond the performances, the Mariachi Extravaganza continues to serve as a vital gathering point for the mariachi community.
“I really enjoy reconnecting with so many people,” says Acevedo. “The event gives students and educators the opportunity to network, collaborate, and strengthen our mariachi community.”
This year’s competition winners received trophies, medals, scholarships, and grants. A total of $32,000 was awarded, bringing the cumulative total to more than a quarter of a million dollars distributed since the event’s inception in 1995. The Mariachi Extravaganza remains the largest contributor of scholarships and grants to mariachi music programsin the nation.
A portion of proceeds from the concert, competitions, and sponsorships supports these scholarships and grants. Special thanks to KHS Alianza Académica, H-E-B, the Bloomberg Foundation (College Possible), Raising Cane’s, the Freeman Coliseum, Texas A&M/CULTIVAR, and Los Altos Mariachi Arts Council (L.A.M.A.C.) for making these contributions possible. Additional appreciation goes to UTSA COLFA and the UTSA Southwest Campus for their year-round support.
And the excitement continues.
On March 28, the Mariachi Extravaganza returns to Las Vegas, in collaboration with the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. The event will feature mariachi group and vocal competitions, culminating in a grand finale concert with competition winners and Jonathan Palomar, accompanied by UNLV’s Mariachi Revolución. Registration is now open.
Plan to join us in Vegas and help create more great memories for young artists from throughout the U.S.
“I was in mariachi before mariachi was cool,” says Rene Benavides of the Mariachi Connection. “Back then, you didn’t brag about being in a mariachi group. Today, there’s so much pride in the music and the culture. The competitive environment pushes everyone to bring their best and perform at the highest level.”
Mark your calendars for the 32nd Annual Mariachi Extravaganza, taking place December 3–5, 2026 in San Antonio.
