McAllen Museum Invites Families to Explore Olmec Culture

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MCALLEN, Texas — The International Museum of Art & Science will host a full day of hands-on learning and family activities centered on the ancient Olmec civilization on Saturday, Jan. 17.

The event, titled “Exploring the Olmecs at IMAS,” is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will highlight the culture, art and legacy of the Olmecs and other Mesoamerican civilizations through interactive experiences.

Visitors will be able to take part in activities throughout the day, including a community piñata build inspired by the Olmec colossal heads, jaguar mask decorating, Ojo de Dios weaving and ceramics-related activities.

A centerpiece of the event is the Olmec Colossal Head Community Piñata Build, a collaborative art project led by artist Josuè Rawmirez. Participants will help construct a large-scale piñata using colorful tissue paper. Rawmirez is scheduled to exhibit Piñatabstract at IMAS in February 2026.

The program also includes two special presentations. IMAS Curator Marcelo Ramirez will speak at 11:30 a.m., followed by a 1 p.m. presentation by Dr. Servando Hinojosa of the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley’s Department of Anthropology.

The event is included with general museum admission and is free for IMAS members. Advance tickets are available through the museum’s website.

IMAS officials say the program is designed for visitors of all ages and encourages families to explore Mesoamerican history through art, culture and hands-on discovery.