Weekend mariachi band for parties and serenatas

Families celebrating birthdays, quinceañeras, weddings, anniversaries and Mother's Day, plus restaurants and community groups.

A set fee per hour or per song package, often split among the players. Extras such as travel, extra hours or a surprise serenata add to the price.

• Playing a mariachi instrument (violin, trumpet, guitarrón, vihuela or guitar)
• Knowing a wide repertoire of Spanish-language songs
• Reliable and professional with clients
• Basic marketing on social media

• Check whether you need a local business license or sole proprietor registration with your city or county
• Consider general liability insurance, since some venues ask for proof of coverage
• Report your income to the IRS; most band members are independent contractors, so agree in writing how pay is split
• Check noise rules for outdoor serenatas and venue permission before playing
• Keep a clear contract with deposit and cancellation terms to protect against last-minute no-shows

Startup costs are typically around $2,000 to $8,000, depending on instruments, trajes, sound gear and any insurance you choose. These are estimates, so check what your group already owns before budgeting.

Monthly revenue is typically around $600 to $3,000, depending on how many weekend gigs you book, your rates and group size. It is an estimate for the band, so agree in writing how pay is split among members.

Check whether you need a local business license or sole proprietor registration with your city or county. Also check noise rules and venue permission for outdoor serenatas, consider general liability insurance, and report income to the IRS.