Plans are shaping up for the 32nd Annual Mariachi Extravaganza where over 100 performances will take place over a 3-day period in the heart of downtown San Antonio. It’s the largest gathering of the most talented musicians and vocalists in the world who will showcase topnotch performances throughout 3 full days of competitions, workshops and concerts. From the world renowned Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán, to the best youth and collegiate mariachi artists and ensembles, it all takes place from December 3-5 in celebration of culture, tradition and mariachi music performance excellence.
New for this year is an Official Grand Opening Ceremony featuring award-winning groups and vocalists scheduled for Thursday, December 3 at 4PM. This ceremony has a phenomenal lineup including performances from UTRGV’s Mariachi Aztlán, Roma High School’s Mariachi Nuevo Santander, and McAllen High School’s Allyson Contador – 2025 Grand Champion Vocal Winner! The National Vocal Semifinals will follow with nearly 40 outstanding performances with students from elementary to college age.
Mariachi Vargas Student Performance
This year, Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán returns as the featured group for the Mariachi Extravaganza Grand Finale Concert on Saturday, December 5 at 7:30PM. But that’s not all! Registered participants will have the unique opportunity to experience Mariachi Vargas during workshops on Friday, December 4. Students will see firsthand the extraordinary performance skills, musicianship and artistry of some of the finest vocalists and instrumentalists on the planet! The impeccable vocals, precise musical arrangements and effortless showmanship are just a few qualities that have earned Mariachi Vargas its legendary reputation as El Major Mariachi del Mundo.
Following this special performance, students will have the opportunity to participate in instrumental and vocal breakout sessions, providing an up-close educational experience with award-winning collegiate mariachi musicians and guests.
This is more than a performance—it is a once-in-a-lifetime learning experience for the next generation of mariachi musicians.
32nd Mariachi Extravaganza Schedule
THURS., DEC. 3
3PM – Doors Open
4PM – Official Opening Ceremony
4:30PM – Vocal Competition Semifinals
9:30PM – Announcement of Vocal Finalists
FRI., DEC. 4
8AM – Doors Open
8:30AM – Orientation
9:00AM – Mariachi Vargas Student Performance
10:15AM – Workshops
1PM – Group Competition Semifinals
9:30PM – Announcement Group Finalists/Winners
SAT., DEC. 5
9:30AM – Doors Open
10:30AM – 3:30PM – National Competition Finals
7:30PM – Mariachi Extravaganza Grand Finale Concert
Important Group Registration Deadline!
Register by the October 15th deadline to secure your group’s spot at the EARLY BIRD RATE of only $65 per student! Registering by this date allows for your team’s spot to be secured, with an option to use a school PO during the payment process. After this deadline, the price will increase significantly, so be sure to get your registration in TODAY to take advantage of this great rate!
The next registration deadline is November 5th, and the late registration deadline is November 16th. Both of these deadlines come with registration price increases, so be sure to get your groups registered early!
Registration Timeline for the 32nd Mariachi Extravaganza:
Early Bird Registration Deadline: October 15th
Regular Registration Deadline: November 5th
Late Registration Deadline: November 16th
And, as a reminder, several new changes are in place for the 32nd Annual Mariachi Extravaganza Group Competitions in regards to the number of musicians and score sheets. Middle School, High School and College/University Groups can now compete with up to 18 students on stage (versus 16 in previous years). In addition, a new score sheet just for the harp has been added to score sheets for armonia, trumpet and rhythm sections due to the growing number of harp players in competing groups.
This is going to be an exciting year across the board and especially at the collegiate level. We have heard from several brand new mariachi music programs from various colleges and universities in Texas. We are expecting tough competitions at the collegiate level this year.
Thank you sponsors: H-E-B, KHS Musica, Raul Rodriguez Law, GigSalad and Kemper Auto Insurance. Without the support of these sponsors, this event would not be possible!
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Add a comment to this blog for a chance to win a FREE Mariachi Extravaganza t-shirt. A winner will be selected on Monday, October 12, 2026. Good luck to all!
