Events: Arizona - Phoenix - Scottsdale

On the heels of a standing-room-only inaugural show, Food City is bringing the second-annual International Mariachi Festival, filled with lively music in a festive atmosphere, to downtown Phoenix’s Orpheum Theater on Saturday, Nov. 4. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the show starts at 7:30 p.m.

The unmistakable sounds of violins, trumpets, guitar, vihuela and guitarrón will permeate the theater, as "the world’s best mariachi,” Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán, which is celebrating its 120th anniversary, will headline the show. Led by musical director Carlos Martinez, who replaced the late legendary musical director Pepe Martinez (who guided the group for nearly 40 years), the group and their folklore dancers will take the audience on a cultural journey through music.

In addition, festival-goers will have an opportunity to experience a special performance from the newly-assembled Mariachi Ángeles de Pepe Martinez Jr.

The festival will also spotlight a show-stopping performance from famed international soloist Marisa Ronstadt, the younger cousin of famous singer Linda Ronstadt. Marisa has her own band, and her own style – a mix of Mariachi, Classic Rock, Soul, R&B, and Indie Pop. Marisa recently headlined a sold-out celebration at the Ford Theatre in Hollywood of “30 Años de Canciones de mi Padre,” the historic recordings from Linda Ronstadt that brought mariachi music to mainstream America.

Tucson-based Ballet Folklórico Tapatío, one of the finest folklorico programs in the nation, will also perform.

Jose Armando Ronstadt, a widely-respected media personality, will emcee this must-attend event of the holiday season.

Mariachi Saguaritos, a children’s mariachi ensemble, will be part of the pre-concert in the lobby, while people sample their favorite Jimador tequila or Jarritos-flavored soda, along with many other sponsors.

Tickets are currently available for purchase at here. Tickets start at $40 each, and are expected to sell out quickly.