The excitement continues to build as we prepare for the 32nd Annual Mariachi Extravaganza, taking place December 3–5, 2026, in San Antonio, Texas!
The official performance order for this year’s Group Competition has been determined following our live drawing hosted by Jonathan Palomar. Participating schools from across the country will take the stage at the Lila Cockrell Theatre on Friday, December 4, showcasing their musical talent, dedication, and passion for mariachi music.
This year’s competition features an exciting lineup of talented student mariachi ensembles, including a record number of participating groups in the College/University category!
We extend our appreciation to all the directors and schools who registered early, helping our team prepare for another memorable Mariachi Extravaganza.
Official 2026 Group Competition Performance Order
The following performance order was determined through a randomized drawing, with designated opening positions reserved for McCollum High School in the High School category and San Antonio College in the College/University category.
Middle School Competition
Friday, December 4 | 12:00 PM
High School Competition
Friday, December 4 | Shortly After 1:00 PM
Mariachi Los Vaqueros of McCollum High School will open the High School competition due to a previously scheduled commitment.
College/University Competition
Friday, December 4 | Approximately 6:30 PM
San Antonio College (SAC) will kick off the College/University competition, followed by the remaining groups in their assigned performance order.
Please Note: The published performance order is subject to change if additional groups are accepted from the competition waitlist. Any accepted waitlisted groups will perform before the groups included in the drawing, in the order they were added to the waitlist.
Important Information for Participating Groups
Competition Registration and Waitlist
Although regular Group Competition registration has closed, schools interested in competing may still register to be placed on a waitlist. Placement on the waitlist does not guarantee participation in the competition.
Registration remains open through November 11 for students and directors wishing to attend the competitions, educational workshops, and the special Mariachi Vargas student presentation.
As a reminder, popurrís are permitted in all Group Competition categories.
Arrival Times and Competition Schedule
With a record number of College/University groups participating this year, staying on schedule is especially important.
We strongly encourage all directors and participating students to arrive early and allow sufficient time for check-in and preparation.
Please also be aware of potential traffic disruptions in downtown San Antonio. As part of the San Antonio Marathon weekend, a 5K race is scheduled for Friday, December 4, at 8:00 PM, with road closures expected to begin around 7:15 PM.
We encourage everyone to plan accordingly and arrive at the Lila Cockrell Theatre before these closures take effect.
Student Information Forms
Directors who have not yet submitted their student information forms are encouraged to do so as soon as possible.
This information is essential in helping our team determine the number of workshop books needed for each instrument and ensuring that students receive the appropriate materials.
Thank you for helping us prepare for a successful event!
Plan Your Stay in San Antonio
A limited number of rooms remain available at the Grand Hyatt San Antonio River Walk, the official host hotel of the Mariachi Extravaganza.
Conveniently connected to the Lila Cockrell Theatre, the Grand Hyatt offers easy access to competition activities, workshops, and other exciting events throughout the weekend.
The deadline to reserve your room is November 11, subject to availability.
Visit mariachimusic.com to access the official hotel reservation link.
Come Experience the Mariachi Extravaganza!
Whether you’re a participating student, director, family member, or mariachi enthusiast, we invite you to experience three exciting days of competition and musical excellence!
Competition wristbands will be available for purchase at the Lila Cockrell Theatre box office, beginning one hour before competitions start. A single wristband provides access to all three days of competitions.
We extend our sincere gratitude to the directors, students, families, and supporters who continue to make the Mariachi Extravaganza such a special celebration of mariachi music and education.
Special thanks to our generous sponsors, H-E-B, KHS America Alianza Academic, Raul Rodriguez Law, and GigSalad, for their continued support.
Our MPR team looks forward to welcoming everyone to San Antonio for another unforgettable Mariachi Extravaganza!
Stay connected! Visit mariachimusic.com and subscribe to our newsletter for the latest announcements, competition updates, and event information.
We’ll see you December 3–5 in San Antonio!
