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PolyCultural Weekend 2026 | April 9–11, 2026

PCW 2026 Theme: Growing Together

Spring is upon us! And what better way to bloom than to grow together?

Mission Statement: PolyCultural Weekend aims to connect admitted students with the cultural community on campus. Our goal is to create an inclusive and welcoming environment where students are able to find their home away from home.

During the weekend, prospective students will explore academic, cultural, and social resources. The weekend experience will help students establish a sense of community, cultivate a feeling of belonging, and gain the confidence to succeed at Cal Poly.

PCW Growing Together Logo

Rooted in belonging, PCW’s 2026 theme, “Growing Together,” celebrates our distinct identities, cultures, and lived experiences. We celebrate and honor our unique roots while drawing nourishment from the same soil and recognizing that our flourishing is deeply connected. We are joined by a collection of Cal Poly’s cultural clubs and organizations, who have selected a plant or flower that symbolizes the strength and beauty of their heritage. Woven together, these plants form a collective garden, one that reflects our shared commitment to connect and bloom.

If you have any questions about our program, please contact us at polycultural@calpoly.edu.

Learn More about PCW 2026!

Space is limited and registration closes on Friday, March 27, 2026.

What is PolyCultural Weekend?

PolyCultural Weekend (PCW) is a three-day overnight experience held during Spring Open House for conditionally admitted students. Participants are paired with a current student Host from one of the cultural organizations, creating space for real conversations and genuine connection from the start.

Throughout the weekend, students explore Cal Poly’s cultural communities, campus life, and the many resources that support their academic and personal development. Beyond scheduled programming, PCW is about building relationships — asking honest questions, sharing experiences, and getting a feel for what everyday life looks like here.

By staying with a Host and engaging directly with student leaders and organizations, participants begin forming bonds that often continue well beyond the weekend. PCW highlights the strength of Cal Poly’s cultural community and helps students see how they can find belonging and build their own community on campus.

Join Us for PolyCultural Weekend 2026!

We’re so excited to welcome you to PolyCultural Weekend! To attend, simply fill out the Open House form (coming soon), indicate that you are interested in attending PolyCultural Weekend, and choose the option that works best for you.

Here’s how you can join:

  1. Come on your own and ride the bus!
    • We have two convenient pickup locations:
      • Los Angeles: Los Angeles Union Station
      • San Francisco: Caltrain Station
    • Both buses leave at 1:30 p.m. on April 9 and are expected to arrive at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo at 6:00 p.m.
    • Both buses will depart from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo on April 11 at 2:00 p.m. and return to their original destination.
    • The PCW Team will arrange overnight accommodations by pairing you with a Cal Poly student Host who lives on campus. Through this option, you will also experience dorm life on campus.
  2. Come on your own with your own ride!
    • You may arrange your own transportation to and from Cal Poly, and we will take care of overnight accommodations by pairing you with a Cal Poly student.
  3. Come with a parent or supporter!
    • You are welcome to travel with a parent or supporter. In this option, travel and accommodations are arranged independently, giving you the flexibility to attend the weekend together.

Once your registration is confirmed, you will receive a follow-up email with:

  • Transportation details (if you selected option 1)
  • Overnight accommodation information (if you selected option 1 or 2)
  • Parking information (if you selected option 2 or 3)
  • A link to the full PolyCultural Weekend itinerary

We can’t wait to see you there and celebrate!

What to Expect During PolyCultural Weekend

Paired with a Student Guide (Host)

Each high school student attendee (Hostee) will be paired with a current Cal Poly student guide (Host). Hosts are involved in cultural organizations, serve as mentors, complete Live Scan and safety training, and stay with their Hostee throughout the weekend. Each pairing is made based on shared backgrounds and interests to help students feel welcomed and supported while exploring campus life.

PCW Got Talent Show

PCW Got Talent is a one-night showcase exclusively for participants, featuring bold and dynamic performances by Cal Poly’s cultural clubs and organizations. From high-energy dance to musical acts, performers celebrate talent, culture, and creativity. Don’t miss this unforgettable night in our beautiful Performing Arts Center.

Choose Your Own Path – Look Forward To:

During PCW, participants will have the opportunity to select from a variety of fun, interactive activities throughout the weekend, including:

  • Drag Workshop – Experiment with makeup, costumes, and self-expression
  • Hiking adventures – Explore scenic spots on campus and enjoy panoramic views
  • Bowling and other recreational activities – Have fun and make new friends
  • Scavenger hunts, silent discos, and dancing with cultural clubs
  • And more exciting experiences to be announced

Other Fun Activities & Events

  • Campus Tours & College Welcomes – Explore Cal Poly’s colleges, learn about academic programs, and get a glimpse of student life
  • Campus Partner Resource Fair – Discover student support services and campus resources
  • Campus Showcase – Cultural clubs and organizations will share performances, cooking demonstrations, and creative activities
  • Poly Royale Parade – Celebrate community spirit in a festive campus parade

Meals & Swag

  • Meals provided: Dinner on Thursday; breakfast, lunch, and dinner on Friday; and breakfast on Saturday
  • PCW Tote Bag – Every participant receives a tote bag filled with snacks and goodies from campus partners

Meet the 2026 PCW Participating Student Organizations

Every student organization below has helped make PolyCultural Weekend possible and successful. The PolyCultural Weekend staff would like to thank the following organizations for their support and participation. Expand each section below to learn more.

APIDA Student Organizations

Cal Poly Andaaz

Cal Poly Andaaz Logo

Cal Poly Andaaz is a non-audition, co-ed, Indian fusion dance team. Students learn and practice a variety of dance styles from across Indian and Western cultures. From groovy hip-hop to energy-filled Bhangra to graceful contemporary, our dancers can do it all! We have previously performed at Illuminate, Cal Poly’s largest dance showcase, and various events hosted by the Indian Student Association.

Instagram @calpolyandaaz

Chinese Students' Association

Chinese Students Association Logo

The Chinese Students’ Association is one of the largest cultural clubs at Cal Poly. CSA is dedicated to embracing diversity and creating a home away from home. With its performing groups and community events, CSA celebrates Chinese culture, friendship, and connection on campus.

Instagram @calpolycsa
Website

GenKey Sound Collective

GenKey Sound Collective Logo

GenKey Sound Collective is a cover band focused on J-rock, city pop, and funk. The group shares appreciation for Japanese artists and international music while creating an energetic space to jam, perform, and connect.

Instagram @hanamigenkey

Hmong Student Association

Hmong Student Association Logo

The Hmong Student Association is a socio-cultural club that aims to foster community with Hmong students at Cal Poly SLO while creating opportunities for connection, celebration, and support.

Instagram @calpolyhsa

Hui 'O Hawai'i

Hui O Hawaii Logo

A cultural organization that observes and appreciates Hawaiian culture in efforts to promote the Aloha Spirit and the concept of ‘Ohana.

Instagram @cphuiohawaii
Website

Indian Student Association

Indian Student Association Logo

Indian Student Association strives to create a community among Indian and Desi identifying students while raising awareness about the South Asian culture on our campus and beyond. From offering a variety of resources to celebrating cultural events, Indian Student Association strives to connect its members to each other, to Cal Poly, and to Indian culture.

Instagram @calpolyisa
Facebook

Japanese Student Association

Japanese Student Association Logo

The Japanese Student Association is a club focused on spreading awareness, understanding, and interest in Japanese culture. Through weekly meetings, cultural education, social events, and mentorship, JSA creates opportunities for members to bond and build community.

Instagram @calpolyjsa

Kaja Krew

Kaja Krew Logo

Kaja Krew, more commonly known as K2, is a non-audition K-pop cover dance club open to students from all backgrounds. The club invites students to dance, have fun, and be part of an energetic and passionate community.

Instagram @cpslo_k2
YouTube
TikTok

Korean American Student Association

Korean American Student Association Logo

Korean American Student Association (KASA) was founded in 1989 and focuses on promoting heritage, identity, and pride of Korean and Korean Americans. We have a non-audition dance team that focuses on hip-hop and K-pop. We also have a 선배 (sunbae) and 후배 (hoobae) mentorship program that strives to establish a warm sense of community at Cal Poly.

Instagram @cpslokasa
Facebook
Website

Nikkei Student Union

Nikkei Student Union Logo

NSU is a cultural and social club that focuses on educating students on Japanese American culture and history. Weekly meetings and weekend events provide many opportunities to make connections and friendships that can last beyond college. All are welcome.

Instagram @cpslo_nsu
Linktree

South Asian Student Association

South Asian Student Association Logo

South Asian Student Association (SASA) aims to be a social and cultural club open to students of any race, ethnicity, region, caste, class, religion, gender, and sexuality. SASA holds a strong commitment to fostering an inclusive community and informing members on issues relevant to the South Asian community.

Instagram @calpolysasa

Vietnamese Student Association

Vietnamese Student Association Logo

The Vietnamese Student Association is committed to creating a community for educating about Vietnamese culture and creating a safe and welcoming space for all students.

Instagram @calpolyvsa

Black Student Organizations

Black Student Union

Black Student Union Logo

The Black Student Union (BSU) strives to enhance the lives of Black students and the life of the student body as a whole. We achieve this through the education of the Black consciousness and through the cultivation and promotion of Black culture. We host weekly meetings, attend conferences, go on field trips, host panels, plan socials, and much much more.

Instagram @calpolybsu
Website

National Society of Black Engineers

National Society of Black Engineers Logo

Society of Black Engineers and Scientists (SBES) was established in 1978 and in 2017 became the National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE). Today, it is the largest University-recognized African American academic and social club. Our mission is to increase the number of culturally responsible Black engineers to excel academically, succeed professionally and positively impact the community.

Instagram @calpolyslo_nsbe
Website

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. (S)

Zeta Phi Beta Logo

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated was founded in 1920 on the campus of Howard University and continues to serve as a community-conscious, action-oriented organization. At Cal Poly, the Xi Xi Chapter upholds the pillars of scholarship, service, sisterhood, and finer womanhood.

Instagram @calpolyzetas

Latinx Student Organizations

Gamma Zeta Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (F)

Gamma Zeta Alpha Logo

Gamma Zeta Alpha Fraternity, Inc. is a Latino-based, multicultural fraternity that centers brotherhood, leadership, cultural awareness, service, and academic excellence. The fraternity is committed to uplifting communities, advocating for equity and social responsibility, and developing men who lead with integrity. Through community service, cultural programming, academic support, and leadership development, Gamma Zeta Alpha turns brotherhood into action while fostering lifelong bonds and positive impact on campus and beyond.

Instagram @calpolygammas

Imagen y Espiritu Ballet Folklorico de Cal Poly

Imagen y Espiritu Ballet Folklorico Logo

Imagen y Espíritu Ballet Folklórico de Cal Poly is a student-led dance club that performs traditional Mexican folk dance at Cal Poly and in the local community. Students are encouraged to join, learn about Mexican culture through dance, and grow their skills. No dance experience is needed.

Instagram @folkloricocalpoly

Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Incorporated. (S)

Lambda Theta Alpha Logo

Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Incorporated is recognized as the first and largest Latina sorority in the nation. The organization is rooted in unity, love, respect, scholarship, political and cultural awareness, and community activism.

Instagram @lta_deltachi
Website

Lambda Theta Phi Fraternity, Inc. (F)

Lambda Theta Phi Logo

Lambda Theta Phi, the first and the largest Latino fraternity in the nation, offers a brotherhood built on respect, academic excellence, Latino unity, leadership, and service.

Instagram @calpolylambdas

Latinos in Agriculture

Latinos in Agriculture Logo

Latinos in Agriculture is a social, cultural, and professional club within the College of Agriculture. LIA creates opportunities for leadership, teamwork, professional growth, and connection while fostering a home away from home for students of all backgrounds and majors.

Instagram @calpolylia
Facebook

Latinx Business Student Association

Latinx Business Student Association Logo

Founded in 1984, the Latinx Business Student Association was created to provide community, support, and resources for diverse students at Cal Poly. LBSA develops future leaders while centering family, professionalism, academics, and community service.

Instagram @lbsacalpoly
LinkedIn

Latinx Cultural Association

Latinx Cultural Association Logo

Latinx Cultural Association creates a community-centered space to learn, share, and experience Latinx culture and practices. LCA promotes belonging while making room for students to express who they are, where they come from, and where they can go.

Instagram @calpolylca
Linktree

Nu Alpha Kappa Fraternity, Inc.

Nu Alpha Kappa Logo

Nu Alpha Kappa Fraternity, Inc. is a multicultural Latino-based fraternity dedicated to brotherhood, leadership development, academic excellence, and community service. The Founding Chapter at Cal Poly fosters inclusive growth, service, and cultural pride.

Instagram @slonak

Puente @ Cal Poly

Puente at Cal Poly Logo

Puente @ Cal Poly is a bridge to success and community. Whether or not students participated in Puente in high school, the organization welcomes students of all majors and backgrounds into a supportive and familiar community.

Instagram @puente_cal_poly

Sigma Omega Nu Latina Interest Sorority Inc.

Sigma Omega Nu Logo

Sigma Omega Nu is a Latina interest sorority founded at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and committed to empowering women through its three pillars: Academics, Cultura, and Sisterhood. The organization welcomes women of all backgrounds who share its values.

Instagram @calpolysunnies
TikTok
Website

Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers

SHPE Logo

The Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers at Cal Poly is dedicated to empowering and advancing Hispanic and underrepresented students in STEM. SHPE offers professional development, leadership opportunities, academic support, and a strong community focused on growth and belonging.

Instagram @shpecalpoly
Website

MENA / SWANA Student Organizations

Armenian Students Association

Armenian Students Association Logo

A cultural club aimed to unite, educate, and foster a social environment for students of Armenian heritage and non-Armenians interested in Armenian culture.

Instagram @calpoly_asa

Middle Eastern and North African

Middle Eastern and North African Logo

MENA is an organization at Cal Poly that creates a space for Middle Eastern and North African students to celebrate and share their cultures. It is intended for the MENA community and also welcomes anyone who cares about and is interested in the culture.

Instagram @calpolymena

Multicultural and Performance Organizations

Cal Poly Drag Club

Cal Poly Drag Club Logo

Cal Poly Drag Club is an on-campus organization dedicated to supporting queer and gender-based art. It was founded to give queer artists and enthusiasts a way to explore and embrace themselves through drag.

Instagram @calpolydragclub

Cal Poly SLO Breakers

SLO Breakers Logo

SLO Breakers is an inclusive cultural organization focused on promoting and practicing breaking at Cal Poly SLO. Break, not breakdance.

Instagram @cpslobreakers

United Movement

United Movement Logo

United Movement is a non-audition dance club that fosters a safe and inclusive environment for people of all backgrounds. The club explores many dance styles, centers hip hop movement, and builds community through workshops, performances, and mentorship.

Instagram @unitedmvmtslo
YouTube
Linktree

Fraternities and Sororities

alpha Kappa Delta Phi (S)

alpha Kappa Delta Phi Logo

alpha Kappa Delta Phi is the first, largest, and only international Asian American-interest sorority. The organization is guided by sisterhood, leadership, philanthropy, scholarship, and Asian awareness while building lifelong relationships.

Instagram @sloakdphi
Facebook
Website

Gamma Zeta Alpha Fraternity, Inc. (F)

Gamma Zeta Alpha Logo

Gamma Zeta Alpha Fraternity, Inc. is a Latino-based, multicultural fraternity that centers brotherhood, leadership, cultural awareness, service, and academic excellence. The fraternity is committed to uplifting communities, advocating for equity and social responsibility, and developing men who lead with integrity. Through community service, cultural programming, academic support, and leadership development, Gamma Zeta Alpha turns brotherhood into action while fostering lifelong bonds and positive impact on campus and beyond.

Instagram @calpolygammas

Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Incorporated. (S)

Lambda Theta Alpha Logo

Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Incorporated is recognized as the first and largest Latina sorority in the nation. The organization is rooted in unity, love, respect, scholarship, political and cultural awareness, and community activism.

Instagram @lta_deltachi
Website

Lambda Theta Phi Fraternity, Inc. (F)

Lambda Theta Phi Logo

Lambda Theta Phi, the first and the largest Latino fraternity in the nation, offers a brotherhood built on respect, academic excellence, Latino unity, leadership, and service.

Instagram @calpolylambdas

Nu Alpha Kappa Fraternity, Inc.

Nu Alpha Kappa Logo

Nu Alpha Kappa Fraternity, Inc. is a multicultural Latino-based fraternity dedicated to brotherhood, leadership development, academic excellence, and community service. The Founding Chapter at Cal Poly fosters inclusive growth, service, and cultural pride.

Instagram @slonak

Sigma Omega Nu Latina Interest Sorority Inc.

Sigma Omega Nu Logo

Sigma Omega Nu is a Latina interest sorority founded at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and committed to empowering women through its three pillars: Academics, Cultura, and Sisterhood. The organization welcomes women of all backgrounds who share its values.

Instagram @calpolysunnies
TikTok
Website

Sigma Omega Phi Multicultural Sorority, Inc. (S)

Sigma Omega Phi Logo

Sigma Omega Phi Multicultural Sorority, Inc. was founded with the goal of opening minds through culture, education, and unity. The organization prioritizes academics, service, and sisterhood while building lifelong bonds and leadership among its members.

Instagram @calpolysophis
Website

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated. (S)

Zeta Phi Beta Logo

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated was founded in 1920 on the campus of Howard University and continues to serve as a community-conscious, action-oriented organization. At Cal Poly, the Xi Xi Chapter upholds the pillars of scholarship, service, sisterhood, and finer womanhood.

Instagram @calpolyzetas

PCW Hostee (Attendee) Schedule

Open House PCW Track Schedule: 2026

  • Thursday
    • 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM: PCW Welcome Ceremony (Chumash)
    • 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM: Host and Hostee Pairing (Chumash)
    • 9:00 PM – 10:00 PM: Power Hour (Building 15)
  • Friday
    • 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM: Breakfast (Multi Activity Center)
    • 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: College Welcomes & Resource Fair (Varying Locations)
    • 11:00 AM – 12:45 PM: Lunch
    • 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM: College Supplemental Tours + Exhibits (Varying Locations)
    • 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Campus Resource Sessions
    • 4:00 PM – 5:30 PM: Choose Your Own Path (Multi Activity Center)
    • 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM: PCW Dinner (Multi Activity Center)
    • 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM: PCW Got Talent Show (Performing Arts Center)
    • 9:00 PM – 10:30 PM: Friday Night Invite (PCW + Open House)
  • Saturday
    • 8:00 AM – 9:00 AM: Breakfast (Chumash)
    • 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Poly Royale Parade
    • 11:00 AM – 12:45 PM: Campus Showcase
    • 1:00 PM – 1:40 PM: Closing Ceremony (Chumash)

PCW Parent and Supporter Schedule

  • Thursday
    • 6:30 PM – 9:00 PM: PCW Parent and Supporter Dinner (Multi Activity Center)
  • Friday
    • 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: College Welcomes & Resource Fair (Varying Locations)
    • 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM: College Supplemental Tours + Exhibits (Varying Locations)
    • 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Campus Resource Fair
    • 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM: PCW Got Talent Show (Performing Arts Center)
    • 8:30 PM: Parent Supporter Night (PCW + Open House)
  • Saturday
    • 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Poly Royale Parade
    • 11:00 AM – 12:45 PM: Campus Showcase

Explore PCW 2026

PCW History PCW Organizations PCW Schedule Campus Partners and Resources Meet the Staff

Meet the PolyCultural Weekend 2026 Team

The PolyCultural Weekend Team is comprised of four Multicultural Student Assistants who foster belonging at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo through outreach, programming, and community building.

Portrait of Sutharsana Karthikeyan

Sutharsana Karthikeyan
Operations Coordinator
Civil Engineering, 3rd Year
skarth04@calpoly.edu

Portrait of Celina James

Celina James
Entertainment Coordinator
Public Health, 3rd Year
cjames14@calpoly.edu

Portrait of Moriah Riggs

Moriah Riggs
Hospitality Coordinator
Business Admin., 3rd Year
mnriggs@calpoly.edu

Portrait of Paige Blankenship

Paige Blankenship
Connections Coordinator
Philosophy & CES, 2nd Year
pblanken@calpoly.edu

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