Southern Illinois University Carbondale is celebrating Hispanic/Latinx Heritage month with traditional music, dancing, games, food and other cultural activities Sept. 12 through Oct. 17. (Photo by SIU Carbondale)
September 11, 2026
SIU recognizes Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month with free celebrations
CARBONDALE, Ill. — Southern Illinois University Carbondale is recognizing Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month and bringing students, staff and the community together through traditional music, dancing, games, food and other cultural activities.
Traditionally, Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month is celebrated Sept. 15 through Oct.15 but organizers are starting celebrations early by hosting a tailgate in partnership with the Hispanic/Latino Alumni Group during Family Weekend on Sept. 12, 3-6 p.m.
The official kickoff event focuses on demonstrating the importance of togetherness, highlighting this year’s theme “Unidos, Somos Más - Together, We Are More.”
“The theme reflects the importance of coming together as a community and recognizing the strength, resilience, creativity, service, and traditions that are part of our diverse Hispanic/Latinx experiences,” said Alexander Rodriguez-Gabino, program coordinator for the Hispanic/Latino Resource Center. “It is a reminder that while our stories and backgrounds may be different, we are stronger when we come together, support one another, and celebrate what connects us.
The official kickoff event is in the Student Services Building Pavilion on Sept. 15, 3-5 p.m.
Culturally rich activities
Other cultural activities will take place across campus during Hispanic/Latinx Heritage Month, including:
- Hispanic/Latino RSO Fair - This event will provide students with an opportunity to learn about and connect with Hispanic/Latino organizations and other student organizations involved on campus. Sept. 17, 5-7 p.m. at the Student Services Building Pavilion.
- Mindful Muñecas and Huichol Yarn Painting Workshop - Participants will have the opportunity to create their own Guatemalan worry doll and Huichol yarn painting while discussing mental health strategies related to navigating anxiety and promoting positive thoughts. Sept. 18, 4-6 p.m. in Student Services Building Rooms 150/160.
- Create Your Own Carta de Lotería - Participants can design a traditional image from the Mexican bingo card or create an artistic image of their own. Sept. 30, 3-5 p.m.
- Noche de Lotería - Those who made their own carta de lotería can bring it to game night or one can be provided. Don’t know how to play? Don’t worry! Lotería is like Bingo and participants catch on fast. Oct. 6, 4-5:30 p.m. in the Student Services Building Room 150/160.
- Tailgate Con Los Betas –This Homecoming event will provide another opportunity for alumni, students and community members to come together and celebrate their Hispanic/Latinx culture. Oct. 17, time to be announced.
Learn more
All of these events are free and open to everyone. Find the complete schedule of events and additional information on the website. For additional details, email arodriguez674@siu.edu.