Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico – Guadalajara is once again ready to come alive with the vibrant sounds and colors of the world’s largest Mariachi festival, the Encuentro Internacional del Mariachi y la Charrería. From August 23 to September 4, 2024, the city will host 13 days of music and the rich traditions that define the Mexican culture.
Now in its 31st year, the festival has grown to be a beacon of cultural pride, recognized globally since its inception in 1994. Mariachi, named an “Intangible Heritage of Humanity” by UNESCO, stands as a symbol of Mexico’s cultural heritage. This year’s festival promises to be especially innovative, bringing together around 25 Mariachi groups from across the globe, each eager to share in the celebration and take home a piece of Mexico’s heart.
Organized by the Guadalajara Chamber of Commerce, the festival isn’t just a local event – it’s an international spectacle. Last year’s event reached over 15 million viewers across 51 countries, and this year, organizers aim to surpass that number, further solidifying Jalisco’s position as the birthplace of Mariachi.
Among the festival’s many highlights, visitors can look forward to music workshops led by experts from the Mexican Mariachi Academy, offering a deep dive into the techniques of this beloved genre. The grand concert at the Telmex Auditorium will blend the talents of the MS Band, the mariachi CHG of Gamaliel Contreras, and the Jalisco Philharmonic Orchestra, creating a unique fusion of musical genres.
The festival also continues its mission to highlight the strength and talent of Mexican women through the Mariachi Ambassador event, showcasing female vocalists and their mastery of traditional Mexican symbols like Mariachi, Tequila, and Charrería.
But the festival isn’t just about the music. Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Mexican heritage through a dynamic showcase of Mexico’s national sport, Charrería. Witness the thrilling Charro Championship, where skilled charros compete in a display of equestrian prowess that’s as much sport as it is cultural tradition.
Indulge in the vibrant Mexican Kermes, a three-day extravaganza on the Paseo Fray Antonio Alcalde. Here, local singers and international mariachi groups take center stage, creating a kaleidoscope of sound and color. Savor delicious traditional food, mingle with fellow festival-goers, and soak in the infectious energy that defines Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico.
This festival is a celebration of Jaliciense identity. It’s a chance to honor the legacy of mariachi, revel in the beauty of charrería, and experience the warmth of Mexican hospitality. Whether you’re a lifelong mariachi aficionado or a curious first-timer, the International Mariachi and Charrería Encounter promises an experience that will ignite your senses and leave you yearning for more.
As Jalisco’s capital city prepares to welcome the world, there is no doubt that this year’s Encuentro Internacional del Mariachi y la Charrería will once again leave a lasting impression on all who attend.
For more information, and the full schedule of 31st International Mariachi and Charro Festival activities, concerts and events, visit mariachi-jalisco.com.mx, or the Encuentro Internacional del Mariachi y la Charrería Facebook page.
