A couple performs a traditional Mexican dance for La Raza Cultural Days, one of several student-organized, weeklong festivals that celebrate family, traditions and culture. (Debbie Aldridge/UC Davis)
It's time to mark your calendars for some exciting spring festivals coming up soon at UC Davis. From ethnic food and entertainment, to art exhibits and films, the festivals offer something for everyone. Four of the events celebrate individual cultures.
"Cultural diversity is a very important facet of UC Davis," says Rosanne Mandel, assistant director of the Student Programs and Activities Center.
The events help bring an awareness, appreciation and acceptance for diverse cultures and their contributions to the campus and society at large.
"We all need to live and work together to make this world a better place — the campus is a perfect place to begin," Mandel says.
The six major spring festivals, including Picnic Day and the Whole Earth Festival, were started by students and most became university-sponsored programs from the late 1960s through the 1980s.
All the festivals have free admission and are open to the public. Only a few of their individual events require tickets.
Native American Culture Days, April 9 to 13
A sunrise ceremony starts the 36th year of Native American Culture Days, with programs held throughout the week that provide an opportunity to learn more about indigenous people and their culture. Events include a youth conference, art show, film festival and a Day of Unity performing arts showcase.
Picnic Day April 14
Join the campus for its 93rd annual Picnic Day, our open house and what is believed to be the largest student-run event in the country with more than 150 activities for all ages. The spirited Cal Aggie Marching Band-Uh! will help kick off the opening ceremonies and parade through downtown Davis and campus. Please bring canned goods or other non-perishable items to donate to the Yolo County Food Bank.
A traditional Hmong performance is given during the annual Asian Pacific Culture Week. (Debbie Aldridge/UC Davis)
Asian Pacific Culture Week, April 16 to 20
The 34th annual Asian Pacific Culture Week begins with a noontime celebration on Monday featuring music, dance, food, games and student organization booths. The week continues with musicians, comedians, actors, authors, artists and civil rights activists. Culture Night, the annual talent showcase, features student, local and professional groups.
La Raza Cultural Days, April 30 to May 5
La Raza Cultural Days, celebrating the traditions and contributions of the Chicano/Latino community, starts with an event on the Quad featuring a student organization fair, talent show, art exhibits, political forums, entertainment and traditional foods. La Gran Tardeada celebration on May 5 wraps up the week with a daylong festival for all ages.
Whole Earth Festival, May 11 to 13
"Arise, Smile and Be the Change" is the theme of this year's socially conscious Whole Earth Festival. Beginning Friday at noon, rain or shine, the eclectic and ever-popular festival offers crafts, entertainment, food, education booths, compost and recycling information.
Black Family Week, May 14 to 19 "Promoting and Tracing Heritage"
Celebrating the various cultures of people of African descent, this year's Black Family Week hosts a family day on the Quad with food, entertainment and a children's fair. Also throughout the week will be theatrical and dance performances, assorted workshops and a job fair.
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