The Mariachi Extravaganza National Vocal Competition Semi-finals is a showcase of exceptional talent, featuring the nation’s best young vocalists from elementary to college level. In this high-stakes event, competitors face off in a fierce battle of vocal skill, where every note counts. Judged by an esteemed panel, participants must impress with their vocal technique, projection, intonation, pronunciation, and stage presence—all scrutinized down to the finest detail. Only the strongest will advance to the finals on Saturday, Dec. 7, where they will compete for the prestigious Grand Champion title. Don’t miss this thrilling competition, packed with the nation’s top rising stars. Wristbands are required for entry to this electrifying event!

Date: Thursday, December 5, 2024 – 5:00 pm

Location: Lila Cockrell Theatre, 900 E Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Wristbands: $25 at the theatre’s Box Office on day of the event. Good for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday competition events.

Students have an incredible opportunity to deepen their knowledge of mariachi music during the Mariachi Extravaganza. Instrumental and vocal workshops will be led by the renowned members of Mariachi Aztlán from UTRGV, one of the most respected collegiate mariachi ensembles in the country. With a prestigious reputation built on years of award-winning performances and a current tour with Mexico’s legendary ranchera singer Aida Cuevas, Mariachi Aztlán stands at the pinnacle of mariachi excellence. Their workshops, held alongside Artistic Director Jonathan Palomar and esteemed vocalists Octavio Moreno and Vanessa Alonso, offer students expert instruction in traditional rhythms such as sones, huapangos, rancheras, and romantic ballads. Participants will also gain access to rare, one-of-a-kind compositions—treasured pieces of music perfect for use in classrooms and beyond. This is a unique chance to learn from the very best, and the knowledge gained will be cherished for a lifetime. Pre-paid registration is required for this exceptional experience.

Date: Friday, December 6, 2024 – 8:30 am – 12:30 pm

Location: Lila Cockrell Theatre, 900 E Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Registration: Closed on November 12

The National Mariachi Group Semi-finals are the ultimate arena for the nation’s top mariachi groups, showcasing the best middle school and high school ensembles in the largest and most fiercely contested mariachi group competitions in the U.S. As the number of mariachi groups continues to grow, the semi-finals provide a platform for all participants to compete at the same starting point. Over the course of 8 hours of electrifying performances, each group comes to San Antonio with one goal: to secure a coveted spot in the finals on Dec. 7.

The excitement culminates as the middle and high school semi-finals transition into an evening of elite performances by collegiate mariachi ensembles, inspiring young artists to pursue mariachi music at the highest level, in a competitive environment.  The competition is open to the public, but wristbands are required for entry to this unparalleled display of mariachi mastery.

Date: December 6, 2024 – 2:00 PM

Location: Lila Cockrell Theatre, 900 E Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Wristbands: $25 at the theatre’s Box Office on day of the event. Good for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday competition events.

The Finals showcase the best competitors in the nation, promising an unforgettable experience. The event kicks off with the middle school group competition finalists, where students captivate audiences with their remarkable talent as they compete for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place in their category.

The spotlight then shifts to the highly anticipated high school group finals, renowned for being the toughest and most fiercely competitive showdown of them all. In this thrilling contest, final scores are so close that mere fractions of a point determine the rankings between first, second, and third place winners, keeping everyone on the edge of their seats.

The excitement culminates with the vocal finalists battling for the prestigious title of Grand Champion Vocal Winner. The top winners will earn the incredible opportunity to open for the world-renowned Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán in concert on Saturday night, making this event a true celebration of mariachi excellence!

Date: December 7, 2024 – 1:00 pM

Location: Lila Cockrell Theatre, 900 E Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Tickets: $25 at the theatre’s Box Office on day of the event. Good for Thursday, Friday, and Saturday competition events.

Date: December 7, 2024 – 7:30 PM

Location: Lila Cockrell Theatre, 900 E Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Tickets: Click here for tickets.

Mariachi music became a beautiful part of Catholic Church services in the U.S. during the 1960s, with the Orta family in San Antonio playing a pivotal role in teaching hundreds of children and adults how to perform the Misa Panamericana and other beloved songs often featured in holiday celebrations and special occasions. We invite you to join us in honoring this rich tradition during several mariachi masses held as part of the Mariachi Extravaganza. Early arrival is recommended to secure a seat for this deeply moving experience.

Date: Sunday, December 1 – 12:00 pm

Location: Mission San Jose, 701 E. Pyron, San Antonio