ESU, partners celebrate 10 years of Vamos a Pescar with day of fishing and fun

Emporia, KS (08/13/2026) — Celebrate a fun day of outdoor activities, fishing and learning when Emporia State University celebrates the 10th anniversary of Vamos a Pescar from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 29.

The annual family-friendly event is a collaboration with Emporia Public Schools, What's in Outdoors, Hispanics of Today & Tomorrow, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks and ESU's Prophet Aquatic Research and Outreach Center.

With options for everyone from those first learning to fish to seasoned anglers, attendees will learn about fishing techniques, understand rules and regulations, explore water safety and other hunting practices, enjoy nature crafts, hiking and hands-on education activities.

"PAROC is thrilled to once again host Vamos a Pescar, especially as we celebrate the 10th anniversary of this incredible event," said Alexandra Hayes, PAROC outreach director. "We are excited to celebrate this milestone with our community and continue providing opportunities for families to learn, explore and connect with the outdoors together."

This year's event will feature a new fishing competition with prizes, a fish-themed chalk art competition along the Dale Greiner Nature Trail, giveaways, free resources and more.

The Homegrown Coffey truck and additional food trucks will be on-site selling coffees, lunch items and sweet treats throughout the event.

Attendees will park at the ESU Student Recreation Center or in the gravel lot north of Highland Street on the north side of campus. From there, golf carts will transport guests to a waiting hayrack wagon that will take them to PAROC. Those attending are welcome to bring a wagon or other items they might need for the day.

Vamos a Pescar is free to the public, and no registration is necessary.

About Emporia State University

Emporia State University offers a range of academic programs through its seven schools: Applied Health Sciences, Business and Technology, Humanities and Social Sciences, Library and Information Management and Library and Archives, Science and Mathematics and Visual and Performing Arts, along with The Teachers College.

ESU stands out for its innovative education practices. It ensures accessible education by offering in-state tuition rates to full-time undergraduate students from all lower-48 United States. Additionally, full-time undergraduates benefit from flat-rate tuition - students enrolled in 12 or more credit hours with at least one credit hour on campus pay a flat rate.

For more information on how to build your future at Emporia State University, please visit www.emporia.edu.