In 1995, several years after the original mariachi conference had ceased to exist, publicist and former mariachi musician Cynthia Muñoz started a new chapter in San Antonio’s mariachi festival history when she instituted the Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza. Founded with the explicit mission of promoting and presenting world-class mariachi artists and preserving the cultural traditions of Hispanic heritage, today the Extravaganza is the largest and longest-running mariachi music festival in Texas and one of the most important events of its kind in the world. Each year, more than a dozen mariachi-related events are held during this seven-day festival, culminating in a gala concert that features award-winning mariachi groups and vocalists and the internationally renowned Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán. The event draws thousands of people from throughout the U.S. who come together to proudly celebrate this music and culture — and enjoy performances from the best in the world.
Read more about the musicians behind Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán