The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center is welcoming Austin back after an expansive renovation that nearly doubled its programmable space. From a new teaching kitchen and galleries to children’s spaces, classes and community celebrations, there’s plenty to discover at the MACC.
We Are Austin host Trevor Scott, broadcasting from the new Longhorn Suite at Fairmont Austin, caught up with Olivia Tamzarian from the MACC to explore what’s new at the nearby cultural destination.
Watch the full video above for a look at the newly reopened MACC and its upcoming events.
Explore the newly reopened Mexican American Cultural Center in Austin!
A bigger space for culture and community
The MACC reopened in June with several new and expanded spaces.
“We almost doubled our programmable space,” Tamzarian said. “It’s just a dream to be back and invite people back to get to know the MACC again.”
The renovated Zócalo Plaza features additional shade and landscaping, while the new La Cocina teaching kitchen hosts classes ranging from tortilla and salsa making to cake decorating. There’s even a garden where participants can gather fresh herbs.
Visitors will also find a new smaller gallery for emerging artists, children’s classrooms and play areas, an artist studio and additional public art.
Explore the newly reopened Mexican American Cultural Center in Austin!
A packed season of events
The reopening arrives in time for a busy stretch of programming during Latino Heritage Month.
Upcoming activities include live music, a children’s health fair and Austin Museum Day, when the MACC will offer tours and family-friendly scavenger hunts.
The following weekend brings Fiesta Austin, filling the Zócalo with vendors, music and dance, including performances from Bidi Bidi Banda and Frederico7.
The MACC is also introducing Casa de la Cultura, a series of free educational classes designed to help people learn skills and connect with culture.
“We’ve been doing things like learning photography, learning sewing, doing gardening, cooking,” Tamzarian said.
Explore the newly reopened Mexican American Cultural Center in Austin!
Honoring Rainey Street’s history
Surrounded by today’s rapidly changing Rainey Street District, the MACC also serves as an important connection to the neighborhood’s Mexican American history.
“That spot where the MACC is was always a place where people gathered and had art programs and festivities,” Tamzarian said. “The fact that the MACC now stands as this beautiful beacon to invite people back and remember that history, it’s really important.”
Visit the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center online for upcoming programs, classes and events.
Explore the newly reopened Mexican American Cultural Center in Austin!