300 minutes of mariachis

Theories abound regarding the origin of the word "mariachi\o7,\f7" but none is definitive. Mariachi music, however, can trace its roots to the Mexican state of Jalisco in the 19th century. The songs tell of love, death and betrayal.

The 17th annual Mariachi USA Festival returns to the Hollywood Bowl with five hours of music by mariachi bands from across the United States. Three-time Grammy-winning pop singer Vikki Carr will headline this year's show. Accompanied by Mariachi Cobre from Florida, Carr will perform traditional songs as well as her pop music hits.

Also performing will be Mariachi Cielo de Mexico from Tucson, Ariz.; Mariachi Campanas de America from San Antonio, Texas; Mariachi Los Arrieros from McAllen, Texas; and Mariachi Los Toros from Los Angeles. The Mariachi USA Folklorico Ballet will also perform.

The show will culminate with an aerial fireworks display and an audience sing-along of mariachi classics.

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Mariachi USA Festival, Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood. 6 to 11 p.m. Saturday. $7 to $150. (800) 627-4224.