San Antonio, TX — January 2nd, 2026

Mariachi Las Alteñas, a celebrated all-women San Antonio-based mariachi ensemble, is proud to announce that it has been selected as a recipient of the City of San Antonio Department of Arts & Culture Artist Grant for fiscal year 2026. This distinguished award supports local arts professionals in creating innovative new work and enriching the cultural landscape of our city.

The Artist Grants program, funded in part by the City’s Hotel Occupancy Tax and the Arts & Entertainment Enhancement Fund, awards annual grants of $7,500 and $15,000 to San Antonio artists working across disciplines including performing arts, recognizing exceptional talent and artistic vision. 

“We are deeply honored and grateful to receive this support from the City of San Antonio,” said Valerie Vargas, Founding Director of Mariachi Las Alteñas. “This grant empowers us to expand our creative boundaries, collaborate with community partners, and share the rich tradition of mariachi music with wider audiences.”

MLA plans to use the grant funding to develop new musical compositions, educational outreach programs, and performance opportunities that highlight the ensemble’s artistic excellence and commitment to community engagement.

The City’s Artist Grants foster artistic innovation and strengthen San Antonio’s cultural identity by investing in local creators who make meaningful contributions to the community. Through this support, Mariachi Las Alteñas will continue its legacy as a trusted ambassador of mariachi culture both locally and beyond.

For more information on Mariachi Las Alteñas, upcoming performances, and project updates, visit www.mariachilasaltenas.com.

About Mariachi Las Alteñas
Mariachi Las Alteñas is a distinguished mariachi ensemble rooted in San Antonio’s vibrant cultural heritage. Known for powerful performances and deep musical expertise, MLA engages audiences with traditional and contemporary works that celebrate Mexican and Texan identity.