Diadeloso 2011: Deep in the Heart of Dia

Forty-five years ago today, Baylor students celebrated their annual spring holiday under the name “Diadeloso” for the very first time. The day had already been celebrated on campus for 35 years, beginning as All University Day and later being recognized as Physical Fitness Day and May Day. A campus-wide election directed by Baylor’s Chamber of Commerce in February 1966 settled on “dia del oso,” or “day of the bear.”

The tradition continues today, as Diadeloso 2011 was celebrated last Thursday with the usual games, competitions and performances. Among the featured stage performances were a step show; singer-songwriters from Baylor’s student-run music label, Uproar Records; latin dance and swing dance student groups; and country music star Jack Ingram. (See photos from Dia 2011 here.)

New this year was an effort by Baylor accounting students to set a Guinness World Record for the world’s largest Zumba class. More than 600 students, professors, staff members and Waco residents participated, with funds raised by the event going to support Baylor accounting’s mission trip to Uganda this summer. (See a video recap here.)

If you’re an alum who misses the experience of Dia, mark your calendar for June 4, as Diadeloso Texas hits San Antonio! Join hundreds of members of the Baylor family at SeaWorld for a day of fun; admission includes not only the entire SeaWorld experience, but a barbecue lunch and a Baylor program with door prizes. (See photos from last year’s event here.)

Sic ’em, Dia!