Heritage Month Celebrations and Events
Heritage Month Celebrations and Events
In celebration of the histories and contributions of historically marginalized identities, Elon University commemorates heritage months and identity acknowledgments throughout the year. These recognitions provide an opportunity for all members of the Elon community to learn more about the traditions, people, scholarship, history, and current experiences of those who have overcome oppression to create opportunities for all.
Events and celebrations offered during different Heritage Months:
January
Celebrations
Martin Luther King Jr. Day – Monday, January 20th, 2026
Intersect/National Day of Racial Healing- January 21st, 2026
Events
Thursday, January 8th, 2026 - Kwame Anthony Appiah, “Turning Strangers into Friends: An Ethicist’s Perspective on Shared Humanity”
Location: McCrary Theatre, Center for the Arts, 6 p.m.
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemorative Address
Kwame Anthony Appiah challenges audiences to look beyond the boundaries that divide them and to celebrate common humanity. Named one of Foreign Policy’s Top 100 public intellectuals, one of Carnegie Corporation’s “Great Immigrants” and awarded a National Humanities Medal by the White House, Appiah considers readers’ ethical quandaries in a weekly column as “The Ethicist” for The New York Times Magazine. Based on his award-winning book “Cosmopolitanism,” Appiah presents answers that are grounded in a new ethics which celebrates our common humanity, while at the same time offering a practical way to manage our differences. Admission: $15 or Elon ID. Tickets available beginning August 26 at ElonTickets.com and the lecture is eligible for the University Speaker series package.
February – Black History Month
Celebrations
Black History Month – Black History Month, celebrated each February in the United States, is a time to honor the rich history, achievements, and contributions of Black Americans. Established nationally in 1976, it builds on the foundation of Negro History Week, first introduced by historian Carter G. Woodson in 1926. The month serves as an opportunity to recognize the central role Black individuals have played in shaping U.S. history, culture, and society, while also reflecting on the ongoing struggles for racial justice and equality. Through education, storytelling, and community events, Black History Month encourages a deeper understanding of the past and inspires action toward a more inclusive future.
Events
February 3rd, 2025 - Black History Month Kickoff
Join us in McKinnon Hall for student performances, good food, great music, and even better vibes!
- When: Monday, February 3rd, 2025 from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
- Where: McKinnon Hall
February 7th, 2025 - Tiny Shelf Concert
A Tiny Shelf Concert that highlights the rich cultural contributions of Black artists! Tune in, be inspired, and honor Black excellence through the power of music!
- When: Friday, February 7th, 2025 from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
- Where: Belk Library
February 17th, 2025 - Black Table Talk: Legacy in Motion
Through engaging activities and discussions, we’ll explore ways to continue to be a part of a powerful movement in honoring Black history and shaping its future at Elon and across the world.
- When: Wednesday, February 12th, 2025 from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
- Where: McKinnon Hall
February 17th, 2025 - Health & Healing
This interactive event will explore the powerful connection between nutrition and mental health, offering practical tips for nourishing your body and mind.
- When: Monday, February 17th, 2025 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
- Where: El Centro Kitchen
February 21st, 2025 - Black History Month Basketball Game
Cheer on your Lady Phoenix as they face off against Delaware. Come for the game, stay for the opportunity to win some cool prizes!
- When: Friday, February 21st, 2025 at 7:00 p.m.
- Where: Schar Center
February 26th, 2025 - Carnaval Celebration
Join us for a multicultural celebration, blending African, Indigenous, Latinx, and other cultural traditions and performances.
- When: Wednesday, February 26th, 2025 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
- Where: McKinnon Hall
February 28th, 2025 - Black Solidarity Conference
Featuring various sessions designed to foster a deeper comprehension and reflection on individual cultural and societal insights, influences, and ongoing development.
- When: Friday, February 28th, 2025 from Noon – 5:00 p.m.
- Where: McKinnon Hall
March
Celebrations
- Women’s History Month
- Multiracial Awareness Week – Typically held during March the CREDE celebrates Multiracial Awareness Week to bring about awareness and education to this emerging demographic of students. We will spend the week offering educational programming highlighting the experiences, challenges, and research on the multiracial collegiate experience.
April
Celebrations
Asian & Pacific Islander Heritage Month – Asian American and Pacific Islander (API) Heritage Month, celebrated each May (in April at Elon) in the United States, honors the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders. This month recognizes the diverse experiences and identities within these communities, highlighting their vital roles in shaping American history, society, and culture. Originally established as Asian/Pacific American Heritage Week in 1978 and later expanded to a month-long observance in 1992, API Heritage Month commemorates significant milestones, such as the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants in the U.S. in May 1843 and the completion of the transcontinental railroad in May 1869, largely built by Chinese immigrants. It serves as a time for reflection, celebration, and education, fostering greater understanding and appreciation of API communities’ lasting impact on the nation.
This month’s theme is: “Distinctly in Bloom: Growing Together”, which focuses on highlighting the uniqueness of different Asian, Pacific Islander, and South Asian cultures and identities across the diaspora.
2026 Events
Communi-Tea Time
A weekly drop-in event for students to connect and try different Asian snacks & teas. Every week we will have a new theme and new snacks & teas!
When: Every Tuesday in April, 12:30 – 1:30 PM
Where: CREDE
APIHM Kickoff
Join us as we celebrate the rich and diverse cultures of Asian and Pacific Islander (API) communities at our API Heritage Month Kickoff Event! This celebration will feature different foods, cultural performances, local businesses and engaging activities that highlight the contributions and traditions of API communities.
When: April 1st from 5:30- 7 pm
Where: Medallion Plaza
Kaju & Lina Piano Duo (Voyage of Dance)
A duet piano recital featuring classical and Korean folk music. Kaju Lee and Lina Yoo Min Lee met while teaching in Wisconsin and have performed together at various institutions and venues, often showcasing both well-known classical pieces and works by contemporary and Korean composers. Their performances frequently feature both solo and duo (4-hands) repertoire. Sponsored by the Department of Music
When: April 1st at 7:30 pm
Where: Whitley Auditorium
Matcha & Sushi Pops
Students will be able to try matcha and sushi pops. This event is being co-hosted by APSA and Elon Dining.
When: April 7th from 2-3 pm
Where: Outside Lakeside
Spring into History w/ Chinese Club & Arabic Club
A collaboration with Arabic Language Organization. We will be talking about the intersections of history between Chinese and Arabic cultures by making and enjoying spring rolls.
When: Wednesday, April 8th, 6 – 8 PM
Where: El Centro Kitchen (Carlton 114)
K-DNS: Open Dance Session
Details TBD.
When: Friday, April 10th, 6 -7 PM
Where: Koury Dance Studio 5
Holi
A Hindu spring festival of color and sharing love, Holi marks the end of winter and the beginning of spring. The Elon community gathers at Speaker’s Corner to throw colored powder on one another to celebrate the earth returning to color and life and good triumphing over evil. If you plan to throw color, please wear old clothing that can get dirtied by paint. There will also be crafts, food, and other ways to celebrate the holiday.
When: April 10th at 4 pm
Where: Phi Beta Kappa Lawn
APISA Commemorative Dinner
Join us for a commemorative dinner hosted by APSA & the API ERG to bring students, staff, and faculty together!
RSVPs are requested.
Students can RSVP here.
Faculty/staff please RSVP through events management here.
When: April 13th, 5:30-7 pm
Where: CREDE (Moseley 221)
Rainbow Boba
Conversations about intersectionality of LGBTQIA+ and Asian identity. This event is being co-hosted by the Asian-Pacific Student Association and GLC. More details TBD.
When: April 17th, 5:30-6:30 pm
Where: CREDE (Moseley 221)
Asian Film Series: The Globalization Tapes
A documentary exploring how a community in West Java navigates the forces of globalization, tourism, and cultural identity.
When: April 21st at 7 pm
Where: Global Media Room 103
Food For Thought: Korea
An event sharing and discussing about Korean culture & experiences. Food will be provided.
When: April 22nd at 6 pm
Where: CREDE
Donghua Night
A collaboration between Chinese Club & the Anime & Japanese Studies Club where we will be watching donghuas (动画), which is the Chinese term for anime.
When: Friday, April 24th, 8 – 10 PM
Where: Alamance 315
Exploring Asian America: Workshop
An interactive workshop where participants will get to learn more about the spectrum of voices and experiences in Asian America.
When: April 29th from 5:30-7 pm
Where: CREDE
Asian Film Series: Perfect Days
A Tokyo toilet cleaner finds quiet beauty and contentment in his daily routine and unexpected human connections.
When: May 5th at 7 pm
Where: Global Media Room 103
Tai Chi with Chinese Club
Relax before finals with an ancient Chinese martial art, often called “meditation in motion”!
When: Wednesday, May 6th, 5 – 6 PM
Where: Colonnades Quad
LTW: EOY Celebration
When: May 7th from 6- 7:30 pm
Where: McKinnon (Moseley 128)
September/October
Celebrations
Hispanic Heritage Month – Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated annually from September 15 to October 15, is a time to recognize and honor the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities in the United States. The month begins on September 15, a date that marks the independence anniversaries of several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, with Mexico and Chile following shortly after on September 16 and 18, respectively. This celebration highlights the diverse cultural traditions, achievements, and lasting impact of Hispanic and Latinx individuals across various fields, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of their vital role in shaping American society.
Events
September 10th, 2025 - LHU's Birthday Celebration
Come celebrate the creation of the Latinx/Hispanic Union with cake and piñatas.
- When: Wednesday, September 10th | 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.
- Where: Moseley Kitchen
*Sponsored by LHU Student Organization
September 15th, 2025 - Paletas En El Patio
Come learn more about the Latinx-Hispanic Union, and our signature event, La Habana while enjoying yummy paletas.
- When: Monday, September 15th | 4:30 – 5:30 p.m.
- Where: Outside of Moseley Kitchen
*Sponsored by LHU Student Organization
September 15th - October 5th, 2025 - Hispanic Heritage Month Book Display
Come check out books written by Latinx/Hispanic authors, as well as audiobooks on the Libby app.
- When: September 15th through October 5th
- Where: Belk Library
*Sponsored by Belk Library
September 19th, 2025 - Hispanic Heritage Month Kick-Off Celebration
Have fun with us as we kickoff Hispanic Heritage Month by celebrating the independence of Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica. There will be live performances, music, foods, vendors, and more. You don’t want to miss it!
- When: Friday, September 19th | 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
- Where: Medallion Plaza
*Sponsored by El Centro
September 19th, 2025 - La Habana
The Latinx-Hispanic Union is throwing their semesterly dance party with great Latinx music and free food!
- When: Friday, September 19th | 10:00 – 2:00 a.m.
- Where: Taphouse
*Sponsored by LHU, Late Night Elon
September 22nd, 2025 - Vamos a La Cocina
This is El Centro’s hands-on cooking series designed to celebrate and share the rich culinary heritage of LatinX/Hispanic cultures. Each session focuses on creating traditional dishes while fostering community and cultural appreciation. RSVPs are required to attend.
- When: Monday, September 22nd | 1:30 p.m.
- Where: El Centro Kitchen
*Sponsored by El Centro
September 30th, 2025 - Noche Latina
Join us for an afternoon of fun, music and soccer as we cheer on Elon’s Soccer Team. Announcements are made in both English and Spanish.
- When: Tuesday, September 30th | 7:00 p.m.
- Where: Elon Soccer Field
*Sponsored by LHU, Elon Athletics, and El Centro
October 2nd, 2025 - Cafe con Leche with Friends
Join us for a night of karaoke with LHU, First Gen, and El Centro! There will be food and lots of
music!
- When: Thursday, October 2nd | 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
- Where: Irazu Coffee Shop
*Sponsored by LHU, First Gen, and El Centro
October 2nd, 2025 - Graduate Ice Cream Social
Have fun for a night of ice cream and socializing with other Latinx/Hispanic graduate students.
- When: Thursday, October 2nd | 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
- Where: Legends Ice Cream & Churros Greensboro
*Sponsored by Elon Latinx Hispanic Alumni Network (ELHAN)
October 8th, 2025 - Vamos a La Cocina
This is El Centro’s hands-on cooking series designed to celebrate and share the rich culinary heritage of LatinX/Hispanic cultures. Each session focuses on creating traditional dishes while fostering community and cultural appreciation. RSVPs are required to attend.
- When: Wednesday, October 8th | 3:30 p.m.
- Where: El Centro Kitchen
*Sponsored by El Centro
October 9th, 2025 - Perspectivas: Deliberative Dialogue
An educational program focusing on student perspectives and deliberative dialogue, in collaboration
with Kernodle Center.
- When: Thursday, October 9th | 6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
- Where: El Centro
*Sponsored by El Centro and Kernolde Center
October 10th, 2025 - Late Night Cafe con Leche with ELHAN
ELHAN is hosting a late night cafe con leche for an opportunity to network with other
Latinx/Hispanic community members.
- When: Friday, October 10th | 6:30 – 7:30 p.m.
- Where: El Centro
*Sponsored by Elon Latinx-Hispanic Alumni Network (ELHAN) and El Centro
October 24th, 2025 - Gala Latina
This culminating event of Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates student success while highlighting the contributions and achievements of the Latinx/Hispanic community at Elon. Open to all students, faculty, and staff, it serves as a space for empowerment, recognition,
and fostering a more inclusive campus environment.
- When: Friday, October24th | 6:00 – 8:30 p.m.
- Where: LaRose Commons
*Sponsored by El Centro
November
Celebrations
Native American Heritage Month – Native American History Month, celebrated each November in the United States, is a time to recognize and honor the rich histories, diverse cultures, and significant contributions of Native American, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian peoples. This month serves as an opportunity to acknowledge the resilience and enduring traditions of Indigenous communities while also reflecting on the complex history of colonization, displacement, and systemic injustices they have faced. Through education, storytelling, and community events, Native American History Month encourages a deeper understanding of Indigenous perspectives, fosters respect for tribal sovereignty, and highlights the vital role Native peoples continue to play in shaping the nation’s past, present, and future.
Events
November 3 2025, Native American Heritage Month Kickoff
Celebrate Native American Heritage Month with a gathering that brings together Indigenous artists, educational activities and food. The event will offer a chance to engage with the rich history and culture of Indigenous peoples, along with opportunities to win different prizes. The event will take place from 5:30 – 7:00pm in McKinnon (Moseley 128).
November 11 2025, threaded Futures
Come out to Moseley 217 on November 11th at 5 pm for the CREDE’s DEEP event “Threaded Futures”! At this event we will learn how to combat the negative effects of fast fashion through learning how to hand sew and teach 3 important hand stitches to help mend your clothes! Also, in recognition of Native American Heritage month, we will touch on how indigenous culture promotes slow fashion. Small sewing kits will be given out at the event.
For questions, email Simone Royal at sroyal2@elon.edu.
November 17 2025, Frybread Cooking Class
Join the Native American Student Association (NASA) to learn how to make frybread! Fry bread is a flatbread made in many Native American communities usually cooked in oil or shortening.
The event will take place from 5:30 – 7:00 PM in Moseley Kitchen.
November 20 2025, Indigenous Language Revitalization Confrence
Pre-registration for the conference is required.
This conference is part of Elon’s ongoing commitment to strengthening relationships with the Occaneechi Band of the Saponi Nation (OBSN) and deepening campus-wide understanding of local Indigenous communities. It is supported by an Elon Innovation Grant and the Division of Inclusive Excellence.
The agenda includes:
A screening of the documentary Creator Gives Us Language.
Panel presentations from OBSN members and Elon students about local histories of Indigenous communities; the impact of local colonization on Indigenous culture, language, and well-being; and the importance of community and institutional partnership in the revitalization of language and reconciliation.
Breakout discussions to provide space to discuss how the Elon community can support the language revitalization efforts of the OBSN.
For questions, please contact Dr. Corey Roberts (croberts30@elon.edu).
November 4th, 2024 - Crafting in the Commons (NASA)
Join the Native American Student Association (NASA) for a cozy evening of crafting in Global Commons! Supplies will be provided, so bring your creativity and enjoy a relaxing night with friends.
- When: November 4th, 2024 from 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.
- Where: Global Commons
November 11th, 2024 - NAHM Celebration
Celebrate Native American Heritage Month with a gathering that brings together Indigenous artists, educational activities, and food. The event will offer a chance to engage with the rich history and culture of Indigenous peoples, along with opportunities to win different prizes.
- When: November 11, 2024 from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
- Where: McKinnon Hall (Moseley 128)
November 15th, 2024 - Soil to Soul
Looking for a hands-on way to connect with nature and learn something new? Join us for “Soil to Soul,” where we’ll explore the cultural and ecological significance of Indigenous plants. You’ll get to paint your own pot, plant native wildflowers, and take home a piece of nature to transplant outdoors!
- When: November 15, 2024 from Noon – 2:00 p.m.
- Where: CREDE (Moseley 221)