The legendary Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán—El Mejor Mariachi del Mundo returns to San Antonio for the 32nd Annual Mariachi Extravaganza. Based in Mexico City and founded in 1897, Mariachi Vargas is widely regarded as the most influential mariachi ensemble in history. For more than 125 years, the group has set the standard for artistic excellence, innovation, and musicianship, helping define the sound of modern mariachi while preserving its deep cultural roots.
Mariachi Vargas shares a special and enduring relationship with San Antonio that dates back nearly five decades. The ensemble first appeared in the city in 1979 as part of the inaugural International Mariachi Festival, helping establish San Antonio as a premier destination for mariachi music in the United States. During the 1980s, the group gained international recognition through its celebrated collaboration and touring performances with Linda Ronstadt in support of her landmark album Canciones de Mi Padre, introducing mariachi music to new audiences around the world. More recently, Vargas has toured internationally with Mexico’s superstar Luis Miguel and is now a staple for all Dallas Cowboy home games!
In 1995, Mariachi Vargas returned to San Antonio to headline the very first Mariachi Extravaganza and has appeared as the festival’s featured artist nearly every year since. Their impeccable arrangements, extraordinary musicianship, dynamic stage presence, and electrifying performances have made them a beloved tradition for generations of fans who return year after year to experience the magic of this group live in concert. More importantly, Mariachi Vargas has a profound influence on youth. Their performances change lives and helps students understand how beautiful the music can be when performed at its highest level.
Whether you are a lifelong mariachi enthusiast or experiencing this treasured art form for the first time, the Mariachi Extravaganza offers an unparalleled opportunity to celebrate the beauty, passion, and heritage of mariachi music. Join thousands of music lovers for an extraordinary weekend culminating in an unforgettable performance by the world’s most celebrated mariachi ensemble—Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to witness living musical history on one stage in one unforgettable night with the largest gathering of the most talented mariachi musicians in the world.
The Mariachi Extravaganza is recognized as the largest and longest-running competitive mariachi festival in the United States showcasing extraordinary talent from across the nation. From thrilling vocal competitions to championship group performances, audiences witness the next generation of mariachi stars as they compete at the highest level of excellence. Each performance reflects a rich musical tradition that has endured for more than a century, connecting generations through the timeless sounds of Mexico’s most beloved art form.
All events are held at the Lila Cockrell Theatre located on the Riverwalk in the heart of downtown San Antonio. The Lila Cockrell Theatre is connected to the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center and the Grand Hyatt.
