The 2026 Mariachi Spectacular de Albuquerque workshops will offer students and educators an immersive mariachi learning experience led by nationally recognized instructors and professional musicians. Held throughout the conference week, workshops will include instruction in violin, trumpet, guitar, vihuela, guitarrón, harp, and voice, along with ensemble rehearsals and cultural education sessions. Participants of all skill levels will have opportunities to strengthen musicianship, performance technique, and understanding of the mariachi tradition while celebrating the 35th Anniversary theme, “¡Viva La Canción Ranchera!”
Registration is required to participate in the workshops and conference events. More information and registration details can be found on the Mariachi Spectacular de Albuquerque website
La Pasión de Mariachi is the premier educational and cultural presentation of Mariachi Spectacular de Albuquerque, designed to provide students, educators, and the community with a deeper understanding of the history, artistry, and cultural significance of mariachi music. This free public event features discussions, live demonstrations, storytelling, and performances led by distinguished mariachi musicians and cultural leaders from across the country.
As part of the 35th Anniversary celebration, La Pasión de Mariachi continues MSA’s mission of preserving and celebrating mariachi traditions while making arts and cultural education accessible to the entire community. The program creates a unique opportunity for audiences of all backgrounds to connect with the roots, evolution, and lasting impact of mariachi music in an engaging and meaningful way.
The 2026 Mariachi Spectacular de Albuquerque Showcase Competition will take place on Friday, July 10, 2026, at Civic Plaza in downtown Albuquerque. This free public event features outstanding mariachi ensembles from across the country performing after participating in the Mariachi Spectacular conference workshops. Groups compete across multiple divisions for the opportunity to earn top honors and the chance to open the 35th Annual Mariachi Spectacular Concert at Sandia Resort & Casino the following evening. As part of this year’s theme, “¡Viva La Canción Ranchera!,” participating groups are encouraged to incorporate traditional ranchera music into their performances. Join us for an amazing evening celebrating culture, tradition, and the next generation of mariachi excellence.
More information about the conference and related events can be found on the Mariachi Spectacular de Albuquerque website.
Thursday, July 30
6-8:30 p.m.
ABQ BioPark Botanic Garden, 2601 Central Ave. NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104
This summer, something new is growing at the Botanic Garden. The concerts you love are getting a vibrant upgrade with a reimagined Garden Music experience. Each event blooms with its own unique theme, spotlighting different gardens throughout the park. Stroll, explore, and enjoy specialty food, hands-on discovery stations, and the sounds of incredible local artists.
Celebrate the spirit of Albuquerque’s iconic 18-mile stretch of the Mother Road with a grand finale to this summer’s concert series! Albuquerque’s own Al Hurricane Jr. will light up the Festival Green Stage, bringing his legendary energy and getting everyone on their feet to dance in true Route 66 style.
The unmistakable sound of ranchera will fill the summer air as Al Hurricane Jr. takes the stage, delivering his signature blend of Latin, Western, rock, and jazz. Catch the music and let the celebration begin at 7 pm.
Pack a picnic and head to the Botanic Garden for a memorable night of learning, dancing, and adventure.
For details on BioPark Concerts bands, specialty menu items, discovery stations, park & ride, and to get tickets visit: https://www.cabq.gov/artsculture/biopark/events/biopark-music