MEXICO CITY — On Sunday, over 1,000 mariachis congregated in the heart of Mexico City, filling the main plaza with the vibrant sounds of guitars and well-loved songs like “Cielito Lindo.” This event marked the conclusion of a mariachi congress dedicated to celebrating the rich musical heritage of this traditional Mexican art form.

This impressive assembly of musicians reportedly exceeded the previous record of 700 mariachis set during a past meeting in Guadalajara. However, the Guinness World Records organization has yet to respond to inquiries about whether the latest gathering has officially broken that record.

The mariachis, many of whom traveled from various cities to participate, expressed their excitement about performing in such a historic and iconic location. For many, this revered music style is a cherished family tradition rooted in their childhood experiences.

Jesús Morales, a violinist who began his musical journey at the age of eight under the guidance of his father, shared how he carried on the legacy by playing with his uncles in the Mariachi Morales group from Hidalgo by the time he was 13. “The heritage that my dad mainly instilled in us is having respect for music and respect for our roots,” he explained.

Participants showcased a wide array of instruments including guitars, trumpets, and violins, all contributing to a spectacular auditory experience. Among them was Aida Juárez, a seasoned mariachi with two decades of experience, and a trailblazer for female mariachi ensembles. She expressed pride in potentially setting a new record, stating, “We feel proud that we broke it; it is a pride because we are Mexicans.”

Diana Rocío Campos, a local vendor who attended the gathering, shared her enthusiasm for mariachi music, noting its universal appeal. “Anyone who listens to the mariachi gets very excited, whether they are Mexican or not,” she remarked. “People come from many countries like Colombia or Japan to listen to the mariachis.”