[video:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DxlVqiVy9jo]

 Mariachi bands, a taco-eating contest and an outdoor market celebrating Mexico’s Independence Day and Hispanic Heritage Month with music, dancing, food and art will highlight the 12th annual Hayward Mariachi Festival from 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 30, 2022 at City Hall Plaza, 777 B Street. The family-friendly event is hosted by the Hayward Chamber of Commerce Latino Business Roundtable, the City of Hayward, and a multitude of co-sponsors who are proud and honored to present:

• Mariachi Mexicanisimo de Raymundo Coronado;
• Mariachi Mi Terra Linda;
• Mariachi Oro de Mexico;
• Ballet Folklorico de Winton Middle School; and
• Ballet Folklorico de Tlapalli

Attendees should bring lawn chairs and blankets, and as a public health precaution are encouraged to wear masks and practice social distancing. This year’s event will include ballet folklorico school groups and 100 school backpacks will be given away. There will be a taco-eating contests sponsored by Jorge Espinosa and his team at El Taquito Restaurant Dos. Specialty beverages to be served include margaritas, sangria and Mexican beers. Sponsorships are still available for businesses and organizations at $500 and $1000 by contacting Susan Ojeda-Cobos of the Hayward Chamber of Commerce at SusanOc@hayward.org.