After making their US debut early last year, Leyendas del Mariachi marks their return to LA with one of their biggest shows yet at The Ford on Thursday, Aug. 7. The supergroup, which brings together members of various mariachi bands that have long dominated the genre for over three decades, brings with them a celebration of all things Mexican and Latine. Tickets for the show are on sale now, but be on the lookout for a giveaway through our newsletter. Subscribe here so you don’t miss it!

Aside from dancing the night away on Aug. 7, there’s more to get out of your time with Leyendas del Mariachi. Here are a few reasons why this is a show you don’t want to miss.

Some of Mariachi Music’s Best

True to their name, Leyendas del Mariachi brings together artists and musicians across various mariachi bands. While each collective boasts its own repertoire and spectrum of talents, having a revolving ensemble ensures that the supergroup is delivering its best wherever the members may find themselves.

Leyendas del Mariachi, which translates to legends of mariachi, is rounded up with a lineup featuring members from Mariachi Vargas de Tecalitlán, Mariachi Los Camperos, Mariachi Nuevo Tecalitlán, Mariachi Cobre, and Mariachi América de Jesús Rodríguez de Hijar, among many other collectives from Mexico. Having formed in the past few years, they made their LA debut last year at The Soraya in Northridge.

However, many of the bands and members have already earned acclaim both locally and overseas, whether through Grammy wins or their enduring talent through the decades. With a membership that’s borderless, their US tour is just the latest in a long line of accomplishments.

A Whirlwind of Culture

Regardless of what comes to mind when you think about mariachi music, Leyendas del Mariachi takes it to the next level. Their evening at The Ford, itself a large space in the Hollywood Hills, is produced in collaboration with Colibrí Entertainment, a group dedicated to performance art for traditional Mexican music. That attentiveness to their live shows is apparent when considering what they bring to the stage, which ranges from dancers to instruments galore.

The evening can also serve as a proper introduction for those who may be unfamiliar with how far-reaching mariachi music is. Looking past what you might hear in passing at a restaurant, the genre encompasses a wealth of history that dates back to the 18th century. At the same time, it tells the story of the Mexican and Latine diaspora, where the genre’s influence on Los Angeles is apparent in places like Mariachi Plaza and beyond.

The Right Music at the Right Time

Whether or not you grew up listening to mariachi music, there’s something for everyone at Leyendas del Mariachi’s return to LA. In light of the turmoil and upheaval that have been happening in California over the past few months, the show comes as a much-needed break. More importantly, having a group like Leyendas del Mariachi on a big stage spotlights the music that defines the cultural identity of Los Angeles and the greater Southern California area.

At the very least, it gives you a chance to let loose and have a good time to music that’s near impossible not to dance to. For families, it’s a chance to push past generations, with Leyendas del Mariachi itself a collection that includes musicians who have been playing since the ‘60s. When a group or genre has that sort of staying power, never getting old in the slightest, it proves just how timeless it is in quality and ability to bring people together.

Make the Most of Your Visit at The Ford

At The Ford, you can customize your experience to suit your needs and preferences, ensuring a great evening. With its picnic area and amphitheater layout, where there is no such thing as a bad seat, there’s plenty of room to enjoy your food.

Speaking of food, you’re not limited to concessions provided on the day of the concert. Outside food is allowed at The Ford, so feel free to bring your favorite snacks, meals, and drinks. For families, it’s a great way to watch your spending and keep kids happy before the show starts. For individuals and couples, you can enjoy a drink of your choice and let loose by the time the musicians take the stage.

However, since the concert is on a Thursday, be sure to plan your route accordingly. While there are many parking options mapped out by The Ford, it’s worth getting to the venue 60-90 minutes before the show begins at 9:00 PM (which happens to be at 6:30 PM, or when gates open). This way, you can ensure a good time with no rush and plenty of time to eat, drink, and chat.

It doesn’t have to stop with Leyendas del Mariachi. The Ford has plenty of options coming up on their calendar, in August and beyond. In the same month, families can look forward to the Lula Washington Dance Theatre 45th Anniversary Celebration on Aug. 23 or hear sounds from banjo master Béla Fleck and the Flecktones on Aug. 25, among other events, or rock out with Betty Who on Aug. 30.

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