The 18th Annual Las Cruces International Mariachi Conference breaks out the band from November 9 – 13, 2011, with musicians coming from throughout the US and Mexico. Although the mariachi Spectacular Concert and the Student Showcase Concert require tickets, the free Mariachis y Más Fiesta on Sunday November 13 is open to all, from 12 noon to 5 pm, at the historic Old Mesilla Plaza. The Fiesta includes music, dance, arts, New Mexican food vendors, activities for kids, and a swinging good time, by the sound of it.
Before the Fiesta, the Mariachi Mass on November 13 at 9:30 am is a non-denominational celebration with sacred music and dance, and it’s also open to all at NMSU’s Pan American Center. Bishop Ricardo Ramirez presides.
This Sunday November 6, there’s another chance to hear mariachi at the grande finale of Mesilla Mariachi Sundays, from 2 – 5 pm at the Old Mesilla Plaza. The free event includes performances by Ballet Danza Teatro de la Frontera, and mariachi groups including Mariachi Real de Chihuahua. They’ll also finish with a jam session for anyone who wants to join in.
If you’re visiting Las Cruces, here’s a map to Old Mesilla Plaza.
