Hispanic Heritage Month at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi
In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month (Tuesday, September 15, through Thursday, October 15), Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi is hosting a variety of cultural events on campus and via online platforms. Most of the events are free and open to the public.
Hispanic Heritage Month 2026 Calendar of Events
Hispanic Heritage Month 2026 Calendar of Events
September 15 — Hispanic Heritage Month Kickoff
Rotunda & Anchor Ballroom | 12:00 - 1:30 p.m.
Come join us for a celebration as we kick off Hispanic Heritage Month the Islander way. Enjoy free food, entertainment, and activities. For more information, contact the Office of Community and Belonging at belonging@tamucc.edu or 361.825.3346
September 16 — Treats & Tribute: Honoring Dr. Hector P. Garcia
Mary and Jeff Bell Library | 12:00 - 1:00 p.m.
Mary and Jeff Bell Library | 12:00 - 1:00 p.m.
Join Community & Belonging for a sweet celebration recognizing the life and legacy of Dr. Hector P. Garcia. Stop by to enjoy a treat, learn about his contributions, and reflect on the importance of service, leadership, and community. For more information, contact the Office of Community and Belonging at belonging@tamucc.edu or 361.825.3346
September 16 — Celebrate Dr. Hector P. Garcia Day
Larry Urban Gallery | TAMU-CC Downtown Building | 223 N. Chaparral St.| 2:00 p.m.
Larry Urban Gallery | TAMU-CC Downtown Building | 223 N. Chaparral St.| 2:00 p.m.
The Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi campus community is invited to celebrate the legacy of Dr. Hector P. Garcia and his service, leadership, and advocacy as part of a celebration recognizing Dr. Hector P. Garcia Texas State Recognition Day, which is held annually on the third Wednesday in September. Parking is available on N. Chaparral, Lomax, and N. Mesquite streets near the downtown building. Additional parking may be found in the lots near the Whataburger and the Education Service Center. For more information or to RSVP, please contact Lori Podolsky at lori.podolsky@tamucc.edu or call 361.825.2301.
September 29 — Paletas, Cultura y Comunidad
Mary and Jeff Bell Library Outdoor Tabeling | 11:30 - 1:00 p.m.
Mary and Jeff Bell Library Outdoor Tabeling | 11:30 - 1:00 p.m.
Drop-in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month where students can enjoy a free paleta, test their knowledge through Hispanic Heritage trivia and Jeopardy-style challenges, and engage in activities that highlight culture, community, and belonging. For more information, contact the Office of Community and Belonging at belonging@tamucc.edu or 361.825.3346
Family Weekend: October 3, 2026— Oso Bay Biennial XXIV: Soy de Tejas Exhibition
Weil Gallery | 9:00 a.m. - 12:00p.m.
Soy de Tejas (I Am From Texas) celebrates the vibrant voices of contemporary Texas Latinx artists exploring identity, place, and Chicanx experience. This nationally significant exhibition showcases artists who are shaping conversations about culture, belonging, and what it means to be Texan. For more information, contact Jennifer Arnold at jennifer.arnold@tamucc.eduor 361-537-1076.
Exhibition Dates: September 2026 - January 2027
Weil Gallery | 9:00 a.m. - 12:00p.m.
Soy de Tejas (I Am From Texas) celebrates the vibrant voices of contemporary Texas Latinx artists exploring identity, place, and Chicanx experience. This nationally significant exhibition showcases artists who are shaping conversations about culture, belonging, and what it means to be Texan. For more information, contact Jennifer Arnold at jennifer.arnold@tamucc.eduor 361-537-1076.
Exhibition Dates: September 2026 - January 2027
October 7 — Late Night Loteria
Anchor Ballroom CD | 7:00 - 11:00 p.m.
Anchor Ballroom CD | 7:00 - 11:00 p.m.
Join us for a night of fun as we invite all Islanders to play Loteria, enjoy free food, and aim to win an assortment of our prizes. For more information, contact the Office of Community and Belonging at belonging@tamucc.edu or 361.825.3346
October 8 — Bailando International Dance Festival
Performing Arts Center | 11:00 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Bailando International Dance Festival provides a culturally rich and inclusive dance experience, including educational interactions for students, professionals, choreographers, and companies. Bailando International builds a platform for scholarship, networking, and community expression, preparing and serving the future of performers and audiences. For more information, contact Jilissa Cotten at jilissa.cotten@tamucc.edu.
Performing Arts Center | 11:00 a.m. - 9:30 p.m.
Bailando International Dance Festival provides a culturally rich and inclusive dance experience, including educational interactions for students, professionals, choreographers, and companies. Bailando International builds a platform for scholarship, networking, and community expression, preparing and serving the future of performers and audiences. For more information, contact Jilissa Cotten at jilissa.cotten@tamucc.edu.
October 14 - HHM Paint Night: Cantarito Edition
Oso Room | 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Explore the artistry and traditions of Mexican pottery. Join us for a relaxing and creative experience as you paint your own mini cantarito inspired by the colorful patterns, symbols, and designs found throughout Hispanic cultures. For more information, contact the Office of Community and Belonging at belonging@tamucc.edu or 361.825.3346
October 14th – November 5th — Discover the Meaning of an Ofrenda
Mary and Jeff Bell Library
What is an Ofrenda? Stop by the second floor of the Mary and Jeff Bell Library to learn more about el Dia de los Muertos ofrenda and the significance of each piece of the alter. From candles to photos of the departed, there’s so much to take in and understand about this very significant and traditional piece of the Latin culture. From October 14 to November 5 during library open hours (tamucc.edu/library).
Oso Room | 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.
Explore the artistry and traditions of Mexican pottery. Join us for a relaxing and creative experience as you paint your own mini cantarito inspired by the colorful patterns, symbols, and designs found throughout Hispanic cultures. For more information, contact the Office of Community and Belonging at belonging@tamucc.edu or 361.825.3346
October 14th – November 5th — Discover the Meaning of an Ofrenda
Mary and Jeff Bell Library
What is an Ofrenda? Stop by the second floor of the Mary and Jeff Bell Library to learn more about el Dia de los Muertos ofrenda and the significance of each piece of the alter. From candles to photos of the departed, there’s so much to take in and understand about this very significant and traditional piece of the Latin culture. From October 14 to November 5 during library open hours (tamucc.edu/library).
October 26th – November 2nd — Ofrenda: Honoring Memories, Celebrating Life
University Center Rotunda
University Center Rotunda
Celebrate the rich traditions of Día de los Muertos by visiting the Island Community Ofrenda Display. Learn about the significance of honoring loved ones through photos, memories, and symbolic offerings while exploring the cultural meaning behind this cherished tradition. For more information, contact the Office of Community and Belonging at belonging@tamucc.eduor 361.825.3346
Resources and Information
Academic ProgramsStudent Organizations
- ColorStack
- Kappa Delta Chi
- Mexican American Students y Mas
- SACNAS
- Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers
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