El Festival de Culturas
Celebrating culture, community, and diversity at Spartanburg Methodist College
March 17, 2026 • Festival Archive
Spartanburg Methodist College
About El Festival de Culturas
El Festival de Culturas is a cultural celebration at Spartanburg Methodist College that brings together students, faculty, staff, and community members through music, dance, food, cultural displays, and educational experiences.
The festival was created as a Senior Capstone Project by Luna Orozco and organized in collaboration with the Latin American Student Organization (LASO). It serves as a space to celebrate cultural diversity, promote learning, and strengthen community connections on campus.
Hola, soy Luna
I'm proud to call both Mexico and South Carolina home. Growing up surrounded by the beauty of Hispanic culture has shaped who I am today. At ten, I joined the International Dance Academy, a folkloric dance company that sparked my lifelong passion for celebrating Latin heritage.
Since then, I've performed dances representing nearly every Latin American country and even taken the stage in pageants. These experiences taught me confidence, community, and the importance of embracing who you are.
During my time at SMC, I brought those lessons to campus leadership as a Community Assistant, Peer Tutor, and Orientation Leader. I’m passionate about giving back, uplifting others, and representing my culture.
El Festival de Culturas shared cultural pride through authentic food, traditional music, dance, and meaningful connections. The 2026 festival created a lasting memory for students and the SMC community.
"Festival de Culturas brings dance, music, authentic food, cultural storytelling, and local vendors together on campus."
One day to celebrate Hispanic/Latin heritage, connect as a community, and learn from each other.
Experience the Culture
Music
Experience live performances with Latin rhythms and cultural sounds. Music provided by a Latino DJ and a student artist.
Traditional Tacos
Authentic tacos from El Potosino Taquería. $2 tacos for students and $3 tacos for guests, with chicken, steak, or al pastor and traditional toppings.
Dance & Celebration
Traditional folk dances, celebrations, and opportunities to join in the fun, with a Hispanic folkloric dance performance by the International Dance Academy.
Cultural Displays
Explore cultural exhibits showcasing our vibrant heritage. Artesanía, artworks, and cultural displays will be featured.
Face Painting
Get your face painted with the flag of any Hispanic country and show your cultural pride.
Teqball
Join the fun with Teqball, an exciting sport played on a curved table that combines soccer and unique table play.
Treat Tables
Enjoy fresh fruit, mocktails, and snacks with toppings like Tajín and Valentina. Maximum of 3 snacks per person.
Student Vendors
Student vendors will be offering clothing, handmade crafts, knitted items, desserts, and photography services.
2026 Festival Schedule
Cultural Performances
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Opening ceremonies featuring live music from 6:00 PM to 6:30 PM and a Hispanic folkloric dance performance from 6:30 PM to 7:00 PM.
Traditional Food & Mocktails
6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Enjoy Hispanic flavors including tacos, fresh fruit, drinks, and snacks. Treats from Allison's Bakery will also be available.
TeqBall Challenge
6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Join the fun with TeqBall matches. Experience this exciting sport that combines football with unique table play.
Interactive Cultural Activities
6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Face painting and student vendor tables where visitors can explore cultural activities and treats.
Informational Tables
6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Learn more about LASO, First Gen initiatives, and the capstone project.
Open Dance Floor
7:26 PM – 10:00 PM
Live DJ spinning Latin music and an open dance floor where everyone can celebrate together.
APEX Showcase Recognition
Luna Orozco receiving first-place recognition at the SMC APEX Showcase for El Festival de Culturas.
Festival de Culturas received first-place recognition at Spartanburg Methodist College's APEX Showcase through the work of creator Luna Orozco.
The project brought together music, dance, food, cultural displays, and community engagement to celebrate Hispanic and Latin American culture on campus.
Reflecting on the recognition, Luna shared:
"I am humbled and honored for this recognition. I am just as grateful to all of the people who came out to support Festival de Culturas and experience my culture."
The success of the project highlighted the importance of cultural celebration at SMC. Following the event, LASO committed to preserving and building upon El Festival de Culturas.
Festival Memories
Explore the complete gallery of professional photographs capturing culture, community, and unforgettable moments from Festival de Culturas!
View Festival PhotosCommunity Partners & Supporters
Vendor Partners
Student Organizations
Community Support
In Partnership with LASO
Festival de Culturas was organized in collaboration with the Latin American Student Organization (LASO) at Spartanburg Methodist College.
Learn more about LASO, its leadership team, cultural initiatives, and opportunities for student involvement.
Visit SMC LASO