Dreams Inspired Author Talk at La Casita!

Community Submission

2 hours ago

3 min read

Unforgettable evening with Yamile at La Casita

Last week, La Casita welcomed acclaimed author Yamile Saied Méndez for her talk, Beyond the Dress: Quinceañeras, Dreams & Cultural Identity, as part of the 2026 Syracuse Symposium on Dreams. Her presentation was also commemorating La Casita’s 15th anniversary and fall exhibition: Quinceañera Dreams.

Yamile joined community members, and Syracuse University students, faculty and staff for dinner and an intimate conversation about quinceañeras, cultural identity and dreams of the future. An evening of literature, art, and shared experiences, and a lively dialogue about Yamile’s experience as a Latina author in the U.S. The night closed with a book signing and personal dedications for readers of all ages.

Saturday Programs for Teens

La Casita is offering two new programs for youths ages 12 and up, on Saturdays from 11:00am to 3:00pm.

Workshops include Dance & Choreography, Filmmaking and Animation, and M.O.V.E, a wellness program exploring movement and foods that nourish our bodies and make us feel our best.

We welcome teens to dive into these creative workshops, learn new skills, collaborate with peers, and bring their own ideas to life!

FREE and accessible to children, ages 12 and up. Enrollment is still open, but spaces are filling up fast! For details, please call or text La Casita at 315.807.3324.

Creative Arts for Adults

NEW this fall, La Casita is presenting The Story of Us, a creative writing program designed by women for women, to explore family narratives through the lens of motherhood.

Tuesdays from 4:00pm to 6:00pm.

A new season of Art as Mindfulness workshops has already started, focusing on wellness and self-reflection through creative expression.

Thursdays from 4:00pm to 6:00pm.

All programs are FREE. Enrollment is now open!

For details, please call or text La Casita at 315.807.3324.

Quinceañera Dreams Exhibition

Marking its 15th anniversary in 2026, La Casita presents Quinceañera Dreams, a new exhibition that explores one of the most cherished traditions in Latino cultures: the quinceañera celebration. Through community-sourced photographs, video, oral histories, family memorabilia, stunning gowns, and multimedia installations, Quinceañera Dreams explores the history, beauty, and cultural significance of this beloved coming-of-age tradition that connects generations of women.

Open to the public. Guided tours in English and Spanish by appointment.

Gallery Hours:

Tuesday to Friday from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm

Exhibit on view through April 2027

La Casita is on the ground floor of the Lincoln Building at 109 Otisco St. in Syracuse, NY.

To request accessibility accommodations, please email lacasita@syr.edu or call (315) 443-2151.

Welcome Students!

Are you ready to make a lasting impact in the Syracuse community? We invite you to join our team this Fall! Whether you are passionate about youth education, community-based arts programming, music, dance, language arts, or STEAM, there’s a meaningful place for you at La Casita.

As a volunteer or intern at La Casita, you’ll work alongside a dynamic and diverse team committed to fostering creativity, education, and civic engagement. We have opportunities tailored to a wide range of interests and fields, including:

· Communications

· Graphic Design

· Civic Engagement

· Information & Library Sciences

· Nonprofit Management

· Dual-Language Education

· Music & Arts Education

· Performing Arts

…and much more!

Youth and adult programs run Monday through Friday, 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and teen programs on Saturdays, 10:00am to 2:00 p.m.

This is your chance to build valuable skills, expand your professional network, and generate a real, positive impact in the lives of others.

Join us in supporting our community through innovative programs and meaningful engagement.