To give a serenade (serenata) on Día del Amor y la Amistad (Valentine's Day), choose the genre (mariachi, trio, norteño or saxophone), define the address, the time and three songs, and book ahead in Serenattia's musician catalog. The price is shown before you pay and the money is held in escrow until the event.
Why is a serenade the ideal gift for Valentine's Day?
Flowers wilt, chocolate runs out and dinner ends. A serenade, on the other hand, stays in memory because it is a moment: someone arrives, tunes up, sings your name and the atmosphere changes completely. It also works for almost any kind of affection. It is not only for couples: you can also dedicate it to a lifelong friend, to your mom, to your siblings or to the person you have shared the office with for years.
There is one more practical reason: by now almost everyone sends flowers on the same day, so the gesture ends up looking like everyone else's. A serenade is different, personal and can be adapted to each story. And today it is as easy to order as any other gift delivered to the door: you choose, book, pay and wait for the surprise.
What type of music suits who you are giving it to?
These are the options: each says something different and changes the mood.
- Mariachi: the classic of serenades. It brings strength, trumpets and violins. It goes very well for couples, moms and celebrations with family present.
- Romantic trio: guitars and soft voices. Ideal for an intimate declaration, a quiet night or a small space like an apartment.
- Norteño: accordion and bajo sexto. It works when the person likes the music of their region and you want something more festive.
- Banda: lots of volume and a party atmosphere. Better for gardens, terraces or wide patios.
- Solo saxophone or violin: elegant and discreet. Perfect if you live in a building with neighbors or want a more understated surprise.
- Marimba or rondalla: they bring a traditional and nostalgic air, very nice for older people.
If you are unsure, ask yourself what the person listens to when they are happy. That answer usually settles the genre.
Which songs should you request for a love or friendship serenade?
The useful rule is to choose three songs: one they know by heart, one that has meaning for the two of you and one that closes on a high note. For a couple, the boleros and ballads of all time work. For a friend, something more cheerful that you can sing together. For your mom, one of the songs she used to play at home when you were a child.
Share with the musician the person's name and a brief fact they can mention (for example, how long you have known each other). That detail turns a nice serenade into one that feels made for that person.
How much does a serenade cost and how does it compare with other gifts?
The price depends on the city, the genre and the number of members. These are the lowest prices published today by musicians on Serenattia (October 2026), before the service fee:
| City | From (MXN) |
|---|---|
| Puebla | MX$1,300 |
| Mexico City | MX$1,500 |
| Mérida | MX$1,700 |
| Cancún | MX$1,800 |
| Playa del Carmen | MX$2,000 |
| Toluca | MX$2,200 |
| Querétaro | MX$2,400 |
| Monterrey | MX$2,500 |
| Cuernavaca | MX$3,600 |
| Guadalajara | MX$4,000 |
These are entry-level rates: a larger group or a special time slot may cost more. To see how prices move by city and by type of group, see the music price index for Mexico. A 10% service fee is added to the musician's price, with a minimum of MX$200. The musician receives 100% of their rate.
How do you book a serenade without risk?
Serenattia is a marketplace where the price is visible and there is no exclusivity: you compare and decide. The process is simple:
- Go to /musicos, filter by city and genre and review the published rates.
- Send your request with the date, time and address. The Serenattia team confirms the availability of each booking.
- You pay 100% when you book. The money is held in escrow, not handed to the musician right away.
- On the day of the event, before the musician plays, you scan their QR code. That scan releases the payment. If the musician does not arrive, the payment is not released.
If you need an invoice, it can be issued; the 16% VAT (IVA) goes on top of the total.
Tips for the surprise to go well
- Book in good time: on love and friendship dates the musicians' calendars fill up.
- Confirm that the person will be home at the agreed time, without giving away the surprise.
- Notify neighbors or the administration if you live in a building or gated community.
- Ask someone to record the moment on a phone; it is one of those memories you want to watch later.
- If you cannot be present, leave a trusted relative or friend as the musician's contact.
A serenade does not have to be huge to be memorable. With a clear address, three well-chosen songs and a few personal words, any budget can create a moment different from the usual.
Frequently asked questions
Can you give a serenade to a friend?
Yes. A friendship serenade is very welcome: choose a cheerful repertoire, a genre they like and tell the musician what your relationship is so the dedication hits the mark.
How much does a serenade for Valentine's Day cost?
It depends on the city and the group. Today the lowest published price runs from MX$1,300 in Puebla to MX$4,000 in Guadalajara (before the 10% service fee, minimum MX$200). Check the catalog for the exact price.
What happens if the musician does not arrive?
The payment is held in escrow and is only released when you scan the musician's QR code at the event, before they play. If they do not arrive, that payment is not released.
Can I request specific songs?
Yes. When you make your request you can indicate the songs you want and share the person's name. Three songs is the recommendation.
Can I ask for an invoice?
Yes, an invoice can be issued. The 16% VAT (IVA) is added to the total.
How far in advance should I book?
The Serenattia team confirms the availability of each booking, so it pays to request it with some margin.