What is Hispanic Heritage Month?
“Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.
The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402.
The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September18, respectively. Also, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, which is October 12, falls within this 30 day period.”
Source: hispanicheritagemonth.gov
Hispanic Heritage Month Resources
- 2022 Hispanic and Latine Heritage Month Events: Celebrate Hispanic, Latine Heritage Month with different on-campus events at Northern Arizona University. Some events are open to the Flagstaff community.
- Hispanic Heritage Month Resources: The National Museum of the American Latino observes Hispanic Heritage Month between September 15 and October 15 each year to celebrate the Latino community.
- Top 8 Reasons Why and How We Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month: Every year across America communities gather together to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month, which is observed September 15 to October 15. These are the top 8 reasons why and how Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated.
Hispanic Heritage Month Events in the Valley
- Downtown Phoenix Lotería (September 15th – October 15th): Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by playing DTPHX Lotería. Explore new places, discover local buisnesses, and appreciate some cool, Mexican-inspired art.
- Hispanic Soul By Huascar Barradas Trío+ (September 25th): Latin Fiesta Entertainment presents the concert of Huáscar Barradas; who’s recorded 18 albums “and collaborated with many world-renowned musicians in all music styles.”
- Mexican Baseball Fiesta (September 23rd – October2nd): Baseball series features the following teams: Obregon, Mexicali, Hermosillo, Culiacan, Navojoa, and the Arizona Wildcats.
- 23rd Annual Mariachi and Folklórico Festival (October 1st): C.A.L.L.E. de Arizona and Maestra Vanessa Ramirez present this festival that features Mariachi Los Camperos, Mariachi Estrella de Mexico, showcases folklorico dancers from Ballet Folklorico Quetzalli-AZ.
- Guelaguetza (October 1st – 2nd): Enjoy the colorful celebration of Guelagetza at the Garden. Guelaguetza is an annual indigenous cultural event in Mexico that takes place in the city of Oaxaca. Immerse yourself in art, music, dance and enjoy the flavors of Oaxaca’s eight regions. Join a colorful Oaxacan Calenda (parade), try some spicy and sweet mole, visit the mercado and don’t forget to sample some mezcal.
- Lotería Nights (October 6th): Don’t miss your chance to win big at Lotería Nights. Join us once a month at the Garden with rounds of Lotería — a Mexican card game similar to bingo — cerveza, music y más! Play for a chance to win cool prizes, including a Garden membership, plants and so much more! Ages 21+
Sources: abc15.com, thrillist.com
