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.
The theme for 2025’s API Heritage Month is bouquets. The Asian & Pacific Islander community is comprised of many unique cultures, communities, and histories. This year, our celebration of APIHM focuses on how these rich and diverse individual communities have come together in the pursuit of something stronger.
2026 Events
Communi-Tea Time: Every Monday in April
Join the Center for Race, Ethnicity and Diversity Education (CREDE) for a cozy afternoon of conversation, community, and tea! Each Monday, we’ll provide a variety of teas and snacks—just drop in, hang out, and connect with others in a relaxed space. Each week we will have a different theme:
April 7th – Rainbows of Asia
April 14th – Floral Teas
April 28th – International Coffee & Teas w/ the GEC
When: Every Monday in April 12 – 2 PM.
Where: CREDE
April 1 - College Coffee - APIHM Edition
Join us for the start of API Heritage Month with a special edition of college coffee, featuring different Asian beverages and snacks! The CREDE and APSA will also be tabling, so check out their tables to learn more about upcoming events!
April 3 - API Heritage Month 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: Thursday, April 3rd, 2025 from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
- Where: Medallion Plaza
April 3 - APIHM Bingo
Time: 10–11 PM
Location: Upstairs Lakeside
Description: TBD
April 4 - APSA: Ramen Across Asia
Time: 6–7 PM
Location: Moseley Kitchen
Description: Join us for a tasting of different types of instant noodles across Asia!
April 8 - API Heritage Month Spicy Food Challenge
Think you can handle spicy food? Join us for our Spicy Food Challenge! Test yourself as you sample different spicy foods from different Asian cultures. RSVP here to reserve your spot.
- When: Tuesday, April 8th, 2025 from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
- Where: El Centro Kitchen
April 11 - Chinese Club's Language Hour: Qingming Festival
Time: 7–8 PM
Location: Carlton Commons
Description: Join us for the Chinese Club’s 2nd language hour where we will practice Chinese and learn about the Qingming Festival—a traditional holiday dedicated to honoring ancestors. Enjoy a chance to eat spring rolls and other Chinese snacks!
April 11 - APSA & K-DNS: Tanghulu & Dance Workshop
Time: 7–8 PM
Location: La Rose Student Commons
Description: Get ready for a night of sweet treats and killer moves at Tanghulu & K-Pop Random Dance Night! Join us for Tanghulu and the ultimate K-pop dance showdown! Whether you’re here to snack, dance, or just vibe with fellow fans, this is the perfect event to indulge in sweetness and unleash your inner idol.
April 14 - Speaker: Collecting Oral Histories with Asian Diaspora
Time: 4 PM
Location: Moseley 224
Description: Join us for a talk with Maydha Devarajan, the interviewer for Southern Mix, an oral history project. Southern Mix is a travel exhibit that highlights the stories of Asian diaspora in the U.S South. The exhibit will be temporarily hosted in Moseley 224 until April 21st.
To learn more about the exhibit, visit their website here.
April 17 - Community Dinner
Want to get to know more people across Elon? Join us for our annual community dinner!
Together with the CREDE, APSA is hosting a dinner where you’ll have the chance to not only connect with people across campus, but also different faculty and staff at Elon. We’ll spend some brief time helping people connect, and then participants will enjoy different Asian foods. We encourage all to join us; RSVP here to reserve your spot.
- When: Thursday, April 17th, 2025 at 5:00 p.m.
- Where: Lakeside 212
April 18 - Vamos A La Cocina: APIHM Edition
Time: 1–3 PM
Location: El Centro
Description: Join us for an APIHM edition of Vamos A La Cocina, a cooking demonstration event hosted by El Centro!
April 15 - Asian Studies Movie Screening: Upstream
Time: 6 PM
Location: Global Media Room
Description: Join Asian Studies for a film screening of the movie Upstream. Upstream follows Gao Zhilei, a 45-year-old software engineer who is unexpectedly laid off. Facing mounting family responsibilities and financial pressures—including his father’s medical bills and his daughter’s education—Gao turns to gig work as a food delivery driver. The film delves into the challenges of China’s gig economy, highlighting issues such as age discrimination, labor exploitation, and the resilience required to navigate such hardships.
April 23rd - Food For Thought: Pacific Islands
Join us for our April Food For Thought, which will uplift Pacific Islander voices and communities.
Join us for Food For Thought: a monthly event where we explore different Asian & Pacific Islander cultures, communities, and personal experiences. This month’s FFT will explore Pacific Islander culture with Hawaiian food! We will also explore environmental issues in the Pacific Islands.
- When: Wednesday, April 23rd, 2025 from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.
- Where: CREDE (Moseley 221)
April 23 - Chinese Club: Painting 101
Time: 10–11 PM
Location: Upstairs Lakeside
Description: TBD
*April 25 - Holi Celebration - DATE CHANGED
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: 4 PM
Where: Speakers Corner
April 25 - APSA: Paint at the Plaza
Time: 5 PM
Location: Medallion Plaza
Description: Unleash your creativity under the open sky at Paint in the Plaza! Whether you want to follow along with a guided tutorial or let your imagination run wild with free painting, this event is perfect for artists of all levels!
April 28 - GLC: Rainbow Boba
Time: 4 – 6 PM
Location: CREDE
Description: Rainbow Boba was created to form a space for gathering and discussion on topics related to the intersections of the LGBTQIA+ and API communities. A colorful assortment of drinks and boba will be provided!
May 8th, 2025 - End of Year Celebration
The end of year celebration to recognize the accomplishments and achievements among the API community at Elon.
Join us for our End-of-Year Celebration, a special gathering to honor the accomplishments and achievements of the API community at Elon! This event will recognize the hard work and contributions of individuals and organizations while also celebrating our graduating seniors as they’re getting a start on their next journey. Come together for an evening of reflection, appreciation, and community as we close the year with gratitude and joy. This event is RSVP-only.
- When: Thursday, May 8th, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.
- Where: Mckinnon Hall
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.
Last Years Events
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)