Mariachi Herencia de México performs national anthem at Bears game

Mariachi Herencia de México made history at Soldier Field by becoming the first mariachi group to perform the United States national anthem during a Chicago Bears game. The performance took place on September 28, 2026, during a Monday Night Football matchup between the Chicago Bears and the Philadelphia Eagles.

The performance was part of the Bears’ ‘Vamos Bears’ initiative to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and honor the influence of the Latino community in Chicago. The 14-member group, which is based in Chicago and has two Latin Grammy nominations, wore blue mariachi suits featuring the Bears' colors and logo. Their rendition of ‘The Star-Spangled Banner’ was inspired by the style of Cuban American jazz trumpeter Arturo Sandoval.

Following the game, the performance went viral, garnering millions of views online. While founder and manager César Maldonado reported receiving widespread positive energy and support from across North America, group member Alonso Orozco Jr. noted that the event also drew some racist criticism despite the group's intent to perform with respect.