NAPA, Calif. — Festival La Onda wasted no time setting the tone at the Napa Valley Expo on a scorching Saturday.

“We’re just getting started,” declared Sonora Tropicana, the first act of the day, as the band launched into a bold, brassy opener that had attendees swaying from the first note. Its high-energy rendition of fan favorite “Así Fue” came packed with gusto, followed by “El Hombre Que Yo Amo.”

Now in its second year, the two-day festival’s lineup leaned more heavily into banda, while the spirit of celebration of Latin music and culture felt even more vibrant.

Festive touches were everywhere: towering catrinas, oversized lotería cards and gleaming lowriders turned the grounds into a living postcard. These colorful displays doubled as photo opps and gave every corner of the space a sense of place—and pride.

There was also more breathing room. Attendees cheered with tacos and micheladas in hand. The layout had been clearly refined. Lucha libre, last year tucked away, was moved to a livelier and more central spot near the food court where it could now draw in curious passersby with body slams and theatrical flair.

The festival’s family-friendly vibe was unmistakable. Toddlers in cowboy boots danced with grandparents on the lawn. At every stage, there were multi-generational groups camped out on picnic blankets. The whole affair felt relaxed and safe even with the rowdier acts.

Food options were expansive: there was slow-cooked birria, spicy shrimp cocktails, tacos de cabeza and aguas frescas in neon hues. For those who came just as excited to eat as to dance, La Onda delivered.

Mariachi made a return, as rousing as ever. This year’s ensemble, dressed in cream suits with gold embroidery, delivered stirring renditions of traditional songs. Camila Fernández lit up the La Onda stage with fiery rancheras, shouting “¡Arriba Jalisco!” as dancers in Tapatío attire — flowing skirts, long braids and one charro doing impressive lasso tricks — whirled behind her.

She dedicated a heartfelt ballad in honor of “a grand woman’s first mariachi song.” It was a gorgeous rendition of Selena Quintanilla’s “No Me Queda Más.” Her set also included “Cancela La Llorada” and the timeless “Volver, Volver,” each met with roars of approval.

By late afternoon, energy built steadily in anticipation of the headliners.

Xavi was among the most hyped artists of the day. Dressed casually in shorts and a white T-shirt to beat the heat, he brought high energy.

“¿Están disfrutando el calorcito?” he joked, aware that many were already seeking shade. Even under the blistering sun, he kept the vibe high. He performed “Poco a Poco” and added his own spin to the classic “Invéntame.” Fans sang along, fanning themselves with merch and beer cups.

Then came the legend: Pepe Aguilar.

“Thirty-four, maybe 35 albums—who’s counting?” he quipped. But between the songs, Aguilar shed the showman role for something gentler, more reflective. He spoke with the air of a philosophical uncle, musing on music as a universal language that helps connect to our most profound feelings.

“We have to pass through what we have to pass through,” he said softly. “It is what it is.” Then, gesturing to the crowd, he added, “This isn’t about politics. It’s about what’s in your heart and who you really are at the core of it all.”

A bastion of common sense in polarized times, Aguilar reminded the audience that traditions — like the music he’s carried for generations — aren’t about division but belonging.

His set included “Por Unas Monedas” and “Por Mujeres Como Tú,” each delivered with the deep emotion for which he’s known. Though his collaborators Los Ángeles Azules weren’t on stage, a video of them accompanied one of his hits. He ended with a triumphant “¡Viva la raza latina!” which was a rallying cry that echoed well beyond the stage.

Banda MS also drew a massive crowd, with diehard fans belting every lyric. The full ensemble was in fine form.

“¡Que vivan las mujeres!” one singer shouted, dedicating a love song to romantics who still believe in love at first sight. They launched into heartfelt sentiment with songs “Tu Perfume and “Háblame de Ti.”

DJ Súbelo Neo brought the party vibes with reggaeton, dembow and club-heavy beats. The set had a few technical hiccups (which he laughed off), but its chaotic pacing made for a rather odd segue into the final act of the night.

As space-themed visuals shimmered on screen, female dancers in glittering leotards swept across the stage. Then, the moment everyone was waiting for: Marco Antonio Solís emerged in a glimmering dark purple suit.

“¡Qué ganas me dieron de verte esta noche!” he sang, prompting a wave of screams and teary-eyed cheers. His stage presence was equal parts spiritual guide and romantic crooner. He shouted out his fellow Michoacanos and praised the beauty of Napa Valley.

“There’s nothing like nature to remind us of God’s grandeur,” he announced.

At one point, Solís told a beautiful story of life on tour. He reflected on the series of events led to the creation of “Nadie Es Perfecto.” Waves rippled through the crowd as he performed the song. One woman FaceTimed her abuela. Some couples swayed, arms wrapped around each other, moved by the music and the moment.

Follow photographer Mariana García at Instagram.com/marianagphoto.