Experience the Magic of the Mariachi Fest at Lake Elsinore Diamond Stadium

As summer turns to fall, the Inland Empire is preparing to celebrate culture, music, and heritage in a grand way. On Saturday, September 20, 2025, the 5th Annual Mariachi Fest returns to Lake Elsinore Diamond Stadium—and this year promises to be the biggest celebration yet. From legendary mariachi performances to a tequila and mezcal tasting expo, colorful folklórico dances, and a fireworks finale, this event is set to deliver an unforgettable evening for the entire community.

A Star-Studded Lineup of Performers

The heart of the festival is, of course, the music—and this year’s lineup is nothing short of extraordinary. Leading the bill is Ana Bárbara, one of Mexico’s most celebrated voices. Known for her commanding stage presence and timeless hits, Ana Bárbara has captivated audiences for decades, blending traditional mariachi with contemporary Latin sounds.

Joining her are two world-renowned ensembles that embody the very spirit of mariachi music. The legendary Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán, founded in 1897 in Jalisco, Mexico, has been hailed as “the best mariachi in the world” and continues to set the standard for the genre with their flawless musicianship. Fans will also enjoy the Grammy Award-winning Mariachi Los Camperos, beloved for their powerful, soulful sound and dedication to preserving mariachi traditions while also innovating within the genre.

From 5:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m., the stadium will come alive with the sounds of violins, trumpets, and soaring vocals that celebrate the pride, beauty, and emotion of Mexican culture.

Beyond the Mariachi Music: A Full Cultural Experience

While the festival’s headliners may be the main attraction, the event offers so much more than music. It’s a fully immersive cultural celebration that touches every sense.

Tequila & Mezcal Expo

From 3:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., guests 21 and older can take part in Southern California’s largest tequila and mezcal expo. With over 30 distinguished brands represented, attendees can sample premium agave spirits, meet distillers, and learn about the craftsmanship behind Mexico’s most iconic beverages. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or new to mezcal and tequila, the expo promises a flavorful journey into tradition.

Cultural Exhibitions & Folklore

Presented in collaboration with the Mexican Consulate and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, this year’s exhibition—¡Viva México en su lugar y en su tono!—offers a stunning showcase of Mexican heritage. Visitors will explore art, history, and tradition in a way that deepens appreciation for the culture that inspires mariachi itself.

And no festival would be complete without the dazzling performances of Ballet Folklórico dancers, whose vibrant costumes and intricate choreography bring to life the regional dances of Mexico. Their performances add an extra layer of magic, transporting audiences straight to plazas and fiestas of Mexico.

Food & Artisans

Festivalgoers can also indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine from local vendors—think fresh tamales, tacos, elotes, and aguas frescas. Alongside the flavors, artisan vendors will be on-site with handcrafted goods, offering everything from jewelry to traditional crafts. It’s a chance to bring a piece of the celebration home with you.

A Fireworks Finale to Remember

As the night winds down, the festival will close with a breathtaking fireworks finale, lighting up the Lake Elsinore sky. The spectacle provides the perfect ending to an evening filled with song, dance, and community pride. Families, couples, and friends alike will share in this collective moment of celebration, marking the 5th Annual Mariachi Festival as an event that leaves lasting memories.

Practical Information

• Date: Saturday, September 20, 2025

• Location: Diamond Stadium, 500 Diamond Drive, Lake Elsinore, CA

• Time: Tequila & Mezcal Expo from 3:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. | Festival 5:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Ticket Options

• Tequila & Mezcal Expo (21+): $45 admission, includes tastings and educational opportunities.

• General Admission: Starting at $69, which includes access to the full evening of entertainment, exhibitions, and fireworks.

Tickets can be purchased through Ticketmaster, Live Nation, or directly on the official festival website: lakeelsinoremariachifest.com.

🎟 Win Free Tickets with TheLocalGist.com

Want to attend the festival for free? TheLocalGist.com is giving away two tickets on Friday, September 5th as part of an exclusive community giveaway. This is the perfect chance for local fans to experience the festival without spending a dime. Keep an eye on The Local Gist’s website and social channels for full details on how to enter, and you might just find yourself enjoying the mariachi magic live at Diamond Stadium.

Why You Should Attend

This festival isn’t just a concert—it’s a cultural experience that blends entertainment, tradition, and community spirit. Here’s why you won’t want to miss it:

1. World-Class Talent – The performers are internationally acclaimed, offering a level of artistry that rarely comes together in one evening.

2. A Celebration of Heritage – Perfectly timed with Hispanic Heritage Month, the festival honors Mexican culture through music, food, and art.

3. Something for Everyone – With music, dance, tastings, food, shopping, and fireworks, there’s something to delight every member of the family.

4. A Night Under the Stars – Diamond Stadium’s open-air venue creates the perfect setting for a lively, memorable celebration.

Final Thoughts

The Mariachi Fest at Lake Elsinore Diamond Stadium is more than just an event—it’s a celebration of tradition, artistry, and community. Whether you come for the music, the food, the tequila and mezcal expo, or simply to experience the beauty of Mexican culture, you’ll leave with memories that linger long after the final firework fades from the sky.

Mark your calendars for Saturday, September 20, 2025, gather your friends and family, and get ready to immerse yourself in a night of music, flavor, and culture. Visit lakeelsinoremariachifest.com to secure your tickets before they sell out—and don’t forget to enter TheLocalGist.com giveaway on Friday, September 5th for your chance to win free tickets to this unforgettable event.