Where to Hear Mariachi in Mexico

Mariachi has a rich musical heritage in Mexico. You can find it in every corner of the country with a variety of instruments and styles. Here are the two most famous spots to hear it.

Plaza de los Mariachis

Located in Guadalajara, the square’s official name is Plaza Pepe Guizar, after the mariachi composer who wrote the town’s namesake song. It’s one of the best places to hear the music, in addition to the International Mariachi Festival, held in Guadalajara every year. Unlike Garibaldi, this area is less touristy, mostly populated in the late afternoon.

Plaza Garibaldi

Plaza Garibaldi is Mexico City’s home for mariachi music, inspired by the Charro movies from the Golden Age of Mexican cinema. Salón Tenampa is credited as the birthplace for the style, and is still open late every night. The nearby School of Mariachi was constructed to preserve the origins of the growing genre, which has spread beyond Mexico and throughout the world.