Mariachi bands, ballet folklorico dancers, kids' activities, a taco-eating contest and an outdoor market celebrating Mexico's food and art will be highlights at the ninth annual Hayward Mariachi Festival from 4:30 to 9 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 14 at City Hall Plaza, 777 B St.

The free family-friendly event is hosted by the Hayward Chamber of Commerce Latino Business Roundtable, the City of Hayward, and the Downtown Business Improvement Area. 

In addition to the music, activities for kids will include face painting, Dia de los Muertos mask-coloring, and paper flower making. There will be a taco-eating contest sponsored by Jorge Espinosa and his team at El Taquito Restaurant #2.

Specialty beverages to be served include margaritas, sangria and Mexican beer.

Hayward City Hall Plaza
777 B Street
Hayward, CA 94541