At Shako Mako – Iraqi American Association, our events are designed to celebrate culture, build community, and empower individuals across generations. Throughout the year, we host dynamic gatherings that bring people together through food, music, storytelling, education, and service. From language classes and youth mentorship to cultural festivals and civic engagement workshops, each event reflects our mission to preserve Iraqi heritage, support immigrant communities, and foster cross-cultural understanding. Explore our annual calendar and join us in making every season meaningful.
Shako Mako Annual 2026 Events Calendar
January 2026 Event’s
Shako Mako – Community Launch
Shako Mako – Iraqi American Association Community Launch is to introduce the organization to the public, share its mission, and highlight its programs and future initiatives. This event brings together Iraqi American families and community friends to celebrate culture, build connections, and create awareness of the services and opportunities Shako Mako will offer. Through presentations, cultural hospitality, and community engagement, the launch aims to foster belonging, encourage participation, and establish a strong foundation for ongoing cultural, educational, and community-focused activities.
February 2026 Event’s
Tax Readiness Workshop
Shako Mako – Iraqi American Association will host a Tax Readiness Workshop to help Iraqi American families navigate tax season with confidence through clear, bilingual guidance on U.S. tax rules, 2025 updates, required documents, credits, deductions, and scam prevention. Led by a Texas-licensed CPA, the workshop includes a live Q&A and provides attendees with a discounted tax filing service, aiming to reduce stress and make tax preparation more accessible and understandable for the community.
March 2026 Event’s
Eid & Newruz Celebration
Big family-friendly gathering with Iraqi food, kids’ activities, music, and giveaways. Celebrate diversity within Iraqi cultures.
The purpose of planning this event is to create a shared space where Iraqi, Arab, and multicultural families can come together to celebrate cultural traditions, strengthen community connections, and foster a sense of belonging after Ramadan.
The event is designed as a family-friendly outdoor gathering that encourages joy, inclusion, and cultural pride. With over 95 free tickets reserved, the celebration will feature activities for children and families, including games, entertainment, and opportunities to connect with others in the community. A highlight of the event will be a shared meal featuring Iraqi and Middle Eastern food, reflecting the spirit of hospitality and generosity that defines our culture.
By bringing Eid and Nowruz together in one celebration, the event aims to honor the diversity within our community and highlight how different traditions can come together in unity, joy, and mutual respect.
College Readiness Workshop, Opening Doors to Opportunity
As part of the Youth Leadership Program, Shako Mako’s College Readiness supports Iraqi American parents and students in navigating the U.S. education and college application process through bilingual workshops, academic and career planning sessions, and guidance on admissions, financial aid, and test preparation. The event also offers one-on-one consultations and mentorship opportunities, aiming to strengthen family support, build confidence, and empower students to pursue higher education with clarity and pride.
Shako Mako Watch & Support Experience: Iraq National Team
Shako Mako was honored to be part of a historic and unforgettable moment for Iraqi football, traveling to Mexico to support the Iraq National Team during a landmark international match in 03/31/2026.
The experience went beyond the game itself, becoming a powerful expression of identity, pride, and unity. Community members stood together in the stadium waving Iraqi flags, chanting, and creating an atmosphere filled with passion and emotional connection to their heritage.
Following the match, attendees joined in celebrating a historic result that brought joy to Iraqi fans across the world. The victory became a shared memory of resilience and pride, especially significant for diaspora communities who deeply value these moments of closeness to the national team.
The energy throughout the experience reflected what Shako Mako stands for—showing up for our identity, supporting our community beyond borders, and creating spaces where cultural pride can be fully expressed.
It was an unforgettable journey that will remain a meaningful and proud chapter in the community’s story.
April 2026 Event’s
Women’s Circle & Spring Bazzar
Shako Mako’s Women’s Circle & Spring Bazaar was created as a community-centered gathering designed to bring women together in a welcoming and supportive space to connect, share experiences, and build meaningful relationships. Rooted in the spirit of Iraqi hospitality, where gathering, conversation, and tea symbolize connection, the event reflects Shako Mako’s mission of women empowerment fostering belonging and strengthening community ties.
The event also features a vibrant spring bazaar highlighting women-owned vendors and local small businesses. The goal is to encourage entrepreneurship, community support, and visibility for creative and wellness-based work within the community. Through this combination of social connection and economic empowerment, the gathering aims to create a space where women can both engage personally and support one another professionally.
