Day One – Friday, April 17

The festival begins with morning registration followed by a welcome from the Mayor and City Council. The day continues with a presentation of workshop music on stage, setting the tone for a full schedule of educational sessions. Students will participate in specialized breakout sessions by instrument, including violin, trumpet, guitar, vihuela, guitarrón, harp, and voice. Middle school and high school participants will also have access to vocal masterclasses led by Nereida García and Vanessa Alonzo, as well as a lecture on the history of mariachi music highlighting the women pioneers of La Canción Ranchera, presented by mariachi historian Jonathan Clark. In addition to student-focused sessions, directors can attend a masterclass on adapting musical arrangements to fit student vocal ranges and skill levels, led by Josué “Eddy” López. The evening concludes with the South Texas Mariachi Festival Vocal Competition, open to the public, followed by an awards presentation.

Day Two – Saturday, April 18

The second day features group competitions showcasing outstanding middle school and high school ensembles. The Mariachi Contador Showcase & Awards highlights top students before the ballroom is transformed for the evening gala.

The festival culminates in the Grand Concert & Mariachi Under the Stars Gala, an unforgettable evening open to the public. The concert features vocal competition winners, top ensemble groups, and special guest performances by acclaimed artists including Nereida García, Vanessa Alonzo, Christina Lopez, and Mariachi Aztlán accompanied by a chamber orchestra, with a special appearance by legendary artist Aida Cuevas.

Whether attending as a participant or guest, the South Texas Mariachi Festival offers a rich and memorable experience celebrating the artistry, tradition, and future of mariachi music.