Six one-day events at 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ Davis invite the public to celebrate diverse cultures from Friday, April 3, to Saturday, May 23. All are welcome, and most events are free to attend. The events are organized by students, staff at the university’s Cross Cultural Center and others.
The Big Time — Friday, April 3
This inaugural Big Time at 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ Davis will highlight California Native communities and traditions with shake-head dancing, Native vendors and community resource booths. Big Time gatherings, a tradition among many California Native communities, serve as spaces for celebration, cultural expression and community resilience. Free. 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the . Media contact: Mónica Aceves Robles, Cross Cultural Center, 530-754-3605, macevesrobles@ucdavis.edu.
Powwow — Saturday, April 4
One of the longest-running, student-organized powwows in California, this 50th annual celebrates Native student leadership, community and cultural continuity. It includes dance competitions, intertribal dancing, drum groups, gourd dancers, Native craft and food vendors, community organizations and a gathering space for Native families, students, alumni and the public. Free. 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the . Media contact: Mónica Aceves Robles, Cross Cultural Center, 530-754-3605, macevesrobles@ucdavis.edu.
Danzantes del Alma — Saturday, April 25
, a student folklorico dance troupe established in 1977, will present its 47th annual show, Historias de mis RaÃces (Spanish for Stories of My Roots). The troupe performs traditional dances of Mexico and contemporary dances of the Chicanx/Latinx experience at campus events and throughout Northern California. Tickets are $16.50 for children (under 18), $18 for 51³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏ Davis students and $28.50 for others. They are available through the . Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and the show starts at 6 p.m. at the . Media contact: Crystal Romero, Cross Cultural Center, 530-752-7032, crrromero@ucdavis.edu.
Light Festival — Saturday, May 2
The showcases the Asian, Pacific Islander, Middle Eastern, North African and South Asian communities. The outdoor event will feature student performances, cultural workshops, and food and craft vendors highlighting the traditions and creative practices connected to light festivals. Among the activities will be henna art. 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. on the . Free. Media contacts: Mónica Aceves Robles, Cross Cultural Center, 530-754-3605, macevesrobles@ucdavis.edu; and Makhi Jones, Cross Cultural Center, 530-752-6620, mojjones@ucdavis.edu.
La Gran Tardeada — Saturday, May 16
Through its festivities and cultural activities, strives to preserve the heritage of the Chicanx/Latinx community and transmit it to future generations. The day includes music and dance along with traditional food dishes and flavors. Free. Noon to 6 p.m. on the . Media contact: Crystal Romero, Cross Cultural Center, 530-752-7032, crrromero@ucdavis.edu.
Black Family Day — Saturday, May 23
The 55th annual brings together students, families, alumni and community members to enjoy Black culture, creativity and community. Live entertainment will include bands, DJs and vocal artists with students, student organizations, alumni and community performers taking the stage. The family-friendly event will include Black-owned food and craft vendors as well as water games, tug-of-war and basketball. Free. Noon to 8 p.m. on the . Media contact: Makhi Jones, Cross Cultural Center, 530-752-6620, mojjones@ucdavis.edu.