Exploring Austin’s Mexican Heritage
The history of Texas is one rich with diversity, creating a vibrant melting pot of a city. Those who are interested in the complex cultural landscape of the area can find plenty of opportunities to learn more. Here are just a few excellent establishments to provide a bit of cultural and educational enrichment.
Mexic-Arte Museum
This museum opened its doors in 1984 and is dedicated to Mexican, Latin American and Latino artwork. The institution is a non-profit, and is located in the downtown area. It features multiple exhibits, an art store, and a slew of special events held annually. The museum also features a digital exhibit titled “Austin’s Mexico, featuring the role of Latin Americans within Austin’s business community.
Mexic-Arte Museum
419 Congress Ave.
Austin, TX 78701
United States
Phone: +1 512-480-9373
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Teatro Vivo
Austin’s rich theater culture spans across the past several centuries, but only a few bilingual theaters are currently performing plays in the area. Austin has a large Spanish speaking population and it has a rich theater culture going back centuries. Teatro Vivo is one such venue. The theater offers at least two bilingual productions each year, and is open to auditions from both new and experienced actors. Since 2017, Teatro Vivo has also made an effort to offer plays in sign language, beginning with “Los Moreno”.
Teatro Vivo
600 River St
Austin, TX 78701
United States
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Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center
This fine cultural center is named after Emma S. Barrientos: an active Austin politician. The venue features two galleries that rotate through a variety of Mexican and Latino artists. The center also offers lessons and classes tailored to all ages and educational backgrounds. Several events are held here annually, including Viva Mexico in September, a celebration of Dia De Los Muertos in October, and “Sor Juana Ines de la Cruz”: a tribute to Mexican women, held in April.
Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center
600 River St
Austin, TX 78701
United States
Phone: +1 512-974-3772
Pachanga Presents
Pachanga Presents began as a day-long festival promoting Latino culture. It later evolved into the much larger, quarterly concert series it is today, held at the distinguished Moody Theater. Artists featured in past events include Julieta Venegas, Los Lobos, El Gran Silencio and Toy Selectah.
Las Piñatas ATX Festival
This festival also began as a small, niche event, and has since grown into a robust gathering of local artisans. It was founded by Latinos in Architecture: a group seeking to strengthen Austin’s Latino community. The event now features art exhibits, a picnic, and a selection of locally-crafted piñatas.
Tesoro Trading Company
CLOSED - Updated 2024
If you wish to travel the world without setting foot outside Austin, the Tesoro Trading Company is where to go. Located on one of Austin’s busiest thoroughfares, you’ll find a slew of diverse local shops and eateries to explore. The Tesoro Trading Company showcases small products from around the world, with emphasis on Mexican and South-American cultures. Products include postcards, crosses, and hand-crafted pottery.
Where will you begin?
