Events
Annual events
El Centro hosts annual events that celebrate Chicane and Latiné culture, identity, and community—and all students are welcome to join. From cultural celebrations like Día de los Muertos and Latinx Heritage Month events, to community-building gatherings and educational workshops, our programs are designed to uplift, reflect, and build connection. El Centro also collaborates on campus-wide traditions such as Pachanga, a weeklong celebration of Afro-Latiné culture. Whether you’re new to campus or preparing to graduate, our events offer spaces to experience joy, deepen your cultural understanding, and find your comunidad at UCSC.
La Bienvenida: Fall student welcome
La Bienvenida is El Centro’s signature welcome event, held each fall to foster early connection, community, and belonging. The event introduces students to cultural organizations, campus resources, and new friends—laying the foundation for a meaningful and supported college experience.
Día de los Muertos ceremonia
Día de los Muertos is El Centro’s annual celebration of life, memory, and cultural tradition. Rooted in Indigenous and Mexican heritage, the event honors ancestors through danza, prayer, food, music, and community. Hosted in collaboration with campus and community partners, this free, family-friendly ceremonia offers space for reflection, celebration, and connection.
Chicane Latiné Year-End Celebration
The Chicane Latiné Year-End Ceremony (CLYEC) is El Centro’s signature graduation celebration, honoring the achievements of Chicane and Latiné students and their families. This bilingual, community-centered event features danzantes, live music, and inspiring speakers. CLYEC is open to undergraduate and graduate students and is held in addition to official college commencements.
Pan Dulce Fridays
Pan Dulce Fridays are El Centro’s biweekly community gatherings, co-hosted with HSI Initiatives, that create space for connection, cultural affirmation, and conversation. Featuring pan dulce, café, and chocolate abuelita, these informal yet intentional events center Chicanx and Latiné student experiences while offering comfort, community, and meaningful dialogue.
Pachanga
Pachanga is El Centro’s annual celebration of Afro-Latiné culture, identity, and joy. Co-hosted with the African American Resource and Cultural Center (AARCC), this student-led event highlights the rich connections between African and Latin American communities through music, dance, and shared history. Pachanga creates space for visibility, affirmation, and vibrant cultural expression.