Off-campus events which promote Hispanics or the Hispanic culture will be publicized here with particular emphasis on ties to the Rice community. For example, an event may have special student pricing or may involve Rice Hispanic members.

Hispanic Heritage Month is September 15th to October 15th!

September 20, 2003

Fiestas Patrias is an annual event in Houston that commemorates the independence of eight countries in Latin America: Mexico, Belize, Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. This event also unites Hispanics throughout Houston in a cross-cultural showcase. The Fiestas Patrias International Parade is recognized as one of the largest in the U.S. and about 200,000 spectators line city streets. Also among the events is a Fiestas Patrias Festival that features concerts and cultural exhibitions. The Festival and Parade will be held downtown on Sept. 20.

October 11-12, 2003

The second annual Latino Book and Family Festival will be coming to Houston October 11-12. The event will be held from 10:00 a.m. -5:00 p.m. at the George R. Brown Convention Center. The festival is a celebration of books, culture and education and is designed to promote literacy and cultural awareness. This year's festival will feature Sandra Cisneros, Edward James Olmos, Dagoberto Gilb, Demetria Martinez, Oscar Casares, and over 50 authors. For more information visit www.latinofestivals.com

October 24, 2003
	Festival Chicano marks its 24th anniversary Oct. 9-11 with a roster of top musical artists at Miller Outdoor Theatre in Hermann Park, starting at 7 p.m. Some of Tejano music's biggest stars will be on hand including Little Joe, Jay Perez, Agustin Ramirez and Ram Herrera. Food and cultural exhibits add to the free event. Call (713) 284-8350 or visit www.houstonpark.org