Mariachi music has been an important part of Mexico’s history for more than 200 years and, since 1994, the International Mariachi and Charrería Meeting in Guadalajara has been its biggest celebration. Held every year at the end of August, the festival is organized by Guadalajara’s Chamber of Commerce, and it has become a staple of the city’s cultural calendar, with hundreds of activities such as concerts, competitions, galas, and exhibitions. In 2013, it even played host to a Guinness World Record-setting event for the largest number of mariachi bands playing simultaneously!

Many of the finest Mariachi bands from Mexico and other countries have performed here – this includes groups as distinguished as the Mariachi Vargas de Tecatitlán, the Mariachi de América de Jesús Rodríguez de Híjar, or the Mariachi Los Camperos de Don Natividad; as well as a multitude of bands from countries as far-flung as Croatia, Italy, France, Japan, Sweden, Peru, and Australia.

The highlight of the festival is definitely the Mariachi Gala, which sees the participating mariachi bands play in conjunction with the State of Jalisco Philharmonic Orchestra, creating an unmissable and unique show that celebrates Mexico’s musical history. This popular event sells out far in advance, making it the hottest ticket in the festival!

The rest of the festival’s events are held around the city in concert venues, clubs, and in places as diverse as town squares, shopping centers, sports clubs, and restaurants – no matter where in the city you are, you won’t ever be far from a wonderful Mariachi band.