Sept 15-26: The largest festival in California to celebrate Latino culture returns for yet another star-studded, dynamic event. The celebration kicks off with El Grito (Sept 15, 5pm), a free community event celebrating the 200th anniversary of Mexico’s independence, followed by a special performance of the acclaimed one-man show, Gaytino! (Sept 16, 8pm). This autobiographical play by Dan Guerrero, a prominent Latino independent producer for network and cable TV, focuses on the gay experience throughout decades of Chicano history.

Film buffs will enjoy the impressive lineup of cinema screenings (Sept 20-24, 7pm daily). And those who want to learn more about the art of mariachi can attend mariachi workshops (Sept 20, 7pm; and Sept 23-24, various times), and folklorico dance workshops (Sept 23-24, various times).  

Dolores Huerta will provide a special presentation and compelling conversation as she describes her work propelling the Chicano civil rights movement forward. (Sept 23, time TBA.)

The festivities reach a crescendo with the Feria del Mariachi (Sept 26, 10am-6:30pm), an outdoor festival featuring performances of Mexican regional and traditional music on two stages, along with family craft activities, vendors selling Mexican art, delicious Mexican food, and much more.

A hallmark of the festival is the ever-impressive music talent it draws to its stages. At the Noche de Serenata Gala Concert (Sept 25, 8pm), see Mexican diva Eugenia Leon, Mariachi Cobre, and other notables. And during the Concert for the American Dream (Sept 26), rock out with  such artists as Grammy-winning norteno band Los Tigres del Norte, tejano/norteno group Intocable and the Latino rock, funk and hip-hop world fusion group Ozomatli. (San Jose: Various locations in downtown; www.sanjosemariachifestival.com; 408/920-6070)