THE MAIN EVENTS
Tucson, AZ--- As the 43rd Tucson International Mariachi Conference (TIMC) nears, you can feel the energy in the air as young talents from around the country get ready to spend the most exciting weekend of their lives. Learning from world renowned artists in exclusive workshops where they add to their repertoire of knowledge and prepare to perform for live audiences at the end of their stay in Tucson. Welcome Video
NEW THIS YEAR
COCINA Y CANCION MARIACHI DINNER
Thursday, April 30, 6-9pm - Sosa-Carrillo House
From Stage to Table: Tucson Mariachi Conference Debuts Immersive Culinary Experience.
A four-course dinner with live music, contemporary takes on regional Mexican dishes, and storytelling about the history of mariachi music. Experience a one-of-a-kind evening at the Tucson IMC with a new immersive event that brings together music, history, and cuisine.
Guided by Tucson City of Gastronomy Chef Ambassador Pablo Valencia, this culinary journey explores the Mexican regions that gave rise to mariachi—Michoacán, Colima, Veracruz, Nayarit, Jalisco, and Sonora. Each course highlights the flavors and traditions of a different region, crafted with heritage ingredients and thoughtfully paired with wines from Mexico’s most celebrated winemaking areas.
Between courses, mariachi musicians will perform and share stories that connect the music to landscapes and cultures reflected by each course—creating a rich, multisensory experience. Proceeds from the event benefit Tucson City of Gastronomy, supporting its mission to preserve and celebrate the unique food of the borderlands. https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#label/Mariachi+Photos/WhctKLcDsfmDgRQDPrxvmJhwsrtRnZddsQNBQMGPwXPpJCqdltPKszgkVDXClvsDtkxcbwQ?projector=1
The Menu
Each course will be paired with wines of Mexico
Cóctel de bienvenida - Michoacán
Michoacán Sunset: mezcal, smoked agave corn milk, hibiscus syrup, lime,
burnt orange segment
Aperitivos de la Casa - Colima
Sopitos Colimenses Tostadas: roasted carrot and corn masa tortilla, carnitas, radish, salsa maíz
(Vegetarian substitute with Garbanzo Aquafresca Verde: crushed chickpeas with roasted tomatillo, serrano, cilantro, served on mesquite cracker)
Primer Plato - Veracruz
Pescado con Papas a la Veracruzana: garlic and parsley braised grouper with capers, olives, onions, and tomato, served with crushed potato fried in corn husk oil. (Vegetarian substitute chaya pressed pineapple)
Segundo Curso - Nayarit
Pulpo Zaraneado: "copper penny" octopus, ancho compota salsa, watermelon radish, citrus zest, cilantro. (Vegetarian substitute enoki mushroom)
Tercer Plato - Jalisco
Torta Ahogada de Cabra: homemade bolillo with earth oven goat barbacoa, guajillo chili jugo, pickled red onion, queso fresco, lime (Vegetarian substitute with grey squash scallop)
Postre - Sonora
Mangonadas Raspados: mango sorbet, mezcal chamoy, tamarindo, mesquite cinnamon churro crumble, served in edible rice paper
Cost per person $161.90 with wine, $151.23 without wine. Purchase at Dinner
THE MAIN EVENTS
EL MARIACHI CANTA COMPETITION
Wednesday, Apr 29 from 6 pm to 10 pm at the MSA Annex,
267 S Avenida del Convento
The Mariachi Vocal Competition celebrates the music and vocal performances of this year's TIMC. Talents of the outstanding Students who participated in the vocal workshops will be showcased in this exciting event. Attendees will enjoy food and beverages. For show schedule and to purchase tickets visit Tickets
ESPACTACULAR CONCERT
May 1, 7pm at the Linda Ronstadt Center
Experience the vibrant energy and soul-stirring passion of Mariachi Sol de México de José Hernández live in concert! Founded in 1981 by fifth-generation mariachi master José Hernández, this world-renowned 13-piece ensemble delivers an unforgettable celebration of Mexican cultural heritage. With powerful emotional vocals, soaring trumpets, rich violins, guitars, vihuela, guitarrón, and charro suits, they bring timeless classics to life—featuring heartfelt rancheras, romantic boleros, epic corridos, and joyful gritos that unite generations. Join us for this authentic mariachi fiesta—don’t miss the live Mariachi Sol de México experience! Tickets begin at $89pp and can be purchased at Tickets
Jóse Hernàndez is a master of mariachi music. An internationally recognized musician, composer and educator, Jóse Hernàndez continues to break boundaries in the world of mariachi. A fifth-generation mariachi, Jóse brings the pleasure of mariachi music to audiences all across the globe
STUDENT SHOWCASE CONCERT#1
Thursday April 29, 6pm - MSA Annex
Student Showcase - Conference Participants in Elementary and Middle School will compete for placement. Purchase tickets at the Annex, day of the event.
STUDENT SHOWCASE CONCERT#2
Thursday April 30, 6pm - Linda Ronstadt Music Hall
Student Showcase - Conference Participants compete for the opportunity to perform with professionals at the Espectacular Concert. Purchase tickets at Student Showcase
FIESTA GARIBALDI
May 2, 10am-10pm - Jacome Plaza
Show-stopping mariachi performances and dazzling Ballet Folklorico dancers that bring the festival to life with their colorful costumes and intricate choreography. Food vendors including El Golden Taco, Churros El Rey, Los Chiquilines, Only Wings and others offer a wide array of offerings for attendees to enjoy along with the work of local artisans like El Milagro Artesania and Sol Design Studio and more. The overall atmosphere is one of joy, celebration, and cultural exchange. Tickets begin at $12.50pp and can be purchased online at Tickets and at the event.
MARIACHI MASS
Sunday, May 3, 12 noon - St Agustine Cathedral
For this spiritual and colorful celebration. This traditional Catholic Mass is a beautiful fusion of culture and faith. This solemn celebration of traditional Catholic Mass is a features Mariachis and Folklorico performances. The Mariachi Mass attracts a diverse segment of the community in a wonderful celebration that is open to all denominations. A white dove release will follow Mass. All are welcome - admission is free.
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ABOUT THE TUCSON INTERNATIONAL MARIACHI CONFERENCE
About the Tucson International Mariachi Conference
Since 1982, the Tucson International Mariachi Conference has been a leading force in supporting the development of Mariachi and Ballet Folklorico instruction in schools across the United States. Our long-standing history of fostering Mexican American culture has significantly increased pride, success, craftsmanship, and discipline and encouraged youth to engage in education. P
Proceeds from the event help to support children’s services provided by La Frontera Arizona companies, including La Frontera Center, Melba Chavez Child and Family Center, and La Paloma Family Foster Care Programs. For additional information visit https://www.tucsonmariachi.org/ . Facebook, Instagram
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