Mundo Latino Marked 30 Years at State Fair of Texas
The sisters of founder Rafael Luna have continued his legacy by managing the popular cultural exhibition.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Hispanic
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The Mundo Latino exhibition at the State Fair of Texas celebrated its 30th anniversary this year. The project is now managed by the sisters of the late founder Rafael Luna, who passed away in January 2026.
Why it matters
By continuing to oversee the exhibition, the Luna sisters are honoring their father's legacy while navigating their own grieving process. The event serves as a central hub for Hispanic art and small businesses at the fair.
The exhibition maintains daily operating hours from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Hall of State. This 30-year-old tradition features performers, artisans, and resident artists.
The players
Erica Thlang
She is one of the three sisters currently managing the daily operations of the Mundo Latino exhibition.
Jeanette Vasquez
She serves as one of the primary managers responsible for coordinating the exhibition's diverse array of artisans.
Corrina Luna Ramos
She is a daughter of the founder who helps oversee the exhibition's different operational areas.
Rafael Luna
He was the founder of the Mundo Latino exhibition who passed away in January 2026.
Fonz Hernandez
He is an artist based in East Dallas who created paper mache sculptures for the exhibition.
The details
Erica Thlang, Jeanette Vasquez, and Corrina Luna Ramos divide the exhibition oversight to manage the diverse range of artisans, small businesses, and sculptures. The current installation includes an ofrenda specifically honoring the Luna family and Sylvia Collins, who died in an Oak Cliff apartment fire in May 2026.
Timeline
The exhibition was founded in 1996.
Rafael Luna passed away in January 2026.
Sylvia Collins died in a fire in May 2026.
The 30th annual exhibition was held in October 2026.
Culture Shift
The 30th annual Mundo Latino exhibition marks a departure from short-term cultural pop-ups that typically rotate out of the State Fair of Texas annually. This long-standing presence reflects a broader societal movement toward preserving and highlighting Hispanic heritage in public spaces.
Fairgoers can visit the Hall of State daily between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m. to view the curated works and support featured small businesses. The presence of the ofrenda and local artisans provides residents with a tangible way to engage with the city's diverse heritage.
The takeaway
The Luna sisters are successfully maintaining their father's long-term vision by compartmentalizing the management of the exhibition. Visitors can support this legacy by visiting the Hall of State during the fair's remaining daily operating hours.
Further reading
Learn more about local cultural traditions by visiting the Hispanic section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KERA.
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