With almost 59 million Latinxs in the US comprising 18.1% of the entire population, the Latinx presence is growing every day, not only in numbers, but also in cultural and social terms. As a statement to show who they are and where they stand, since 1968, the Latinx community has celebrated their roots and traditions proudly in what used to be called Hispanic Heritage Week. Over time, a week turned into two in some states, and now, the whole country devotes a month to honoring and celebrating Latinx impact.
Starting on September 15th, the date that marks the independence of many Latin American countries, such as Costa Rica, Guatemala, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Honduras; followed by Mexico’s Independence Day the very next day, and ending on October 15 after the celebrations and Hispanic Day have passed, several cities across the country organize events, and being Latinx, you know they are all about fun, color, flavors, and tons and tons of pride.
So, if you’re looking for great activities and events during this month, here are some great options you’ll love.
Houston, Texas
September 15
If you want to experience a real “Grito” celebration, you can’t miss this event organized by the Miller Outdoor Theatre in Houston. You’ll enjoy a true “Noche Mexicana” with a ranchera concert featuring none other than Antonio Aguilar Jr. Not to mention the classic Mexican amenities such as great food and delicious drinks!
@myst3riousboy
September 18 and 25
Towards the end of September, nearing the Day of the Dead celebrations (so you can arrange everything perfectly) the Multicultural Education and Counseling Through the Arts center will offer an “Anatomy of an Altar” workshop, where you’ll learn everything there is to know about the colorful Day of the Dead altars and their story.
New York City
September 15
There’s nothing more exciting than a great match of Lucha Libre, and if it’s with the one and only original Mexican Lucha Libre AAA organization, even better. You’ll be able to enjoy this now traditional event at Madison Square Garden.
October 13
If you’re from or in New York in October, you don’t want to miss the 55th Annual Hispanic Day Parade, where 21 Latin American countries give a unique spectacle showcasing their folklore, traditions, music, and of course, their gorgeous traditional attire. Definitely a fiesta you want to be a part of.
Los Angeles
September 29 – 30
A cool trip to the aquarium plus a great party, what’s not to like? Right in the middle of the Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations, The Aquarium of the Pacific will open its doors one more time to celebrate the diversity and the traditions of the Latino cultures. You’ll be able to dance and sing to a traditional Mariachi band, appreciate the ancient Aztec ritualistic dances, and many other traditional elements.
@msw_fuji
October 25 to November 2
Day of the Dead is definitely one of the most fascinating Latinx events of the year, and though it technically doesn’t comprise the Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations, you can still save the date, since it’s right across the corner. The event at Olvera Street involves tons of colorful ornaments, a huge procession honoring the day, and tons of activities to learn about this millenary tradition.
Chicago
September 23
This is a perfect event that merges a passion for fitness and Latinx pride. With over 30,000 runners each year, Latinos Run Hispanic Heritage Month Community Run aims to honor and empower Latinx communities all over the country.
September 24
For all the fashionistas out there, the event you’re looking for is Beyond What We Wear, or as its subtitle clearly puts it, “A Fashion Show Benefit for Hispanic Heritage Month.” With renowned Mexican designers like Lydia Lavin and Montserrat Messeguer, this fashion show will focus on Mexico’s textile heritage. By doing so, the profits from the event will benefit the Chicago Women Veterans as a way to give back to the community.
Miami
October 1 – 15
Miami’s Hispanic TLBGQ Festival takes pride to the next level. With dozens of activities throughout the second half of Hispanic Heritage Month, this festival aims to celebrate diversity in all ways. Among the many amenities, you can ride special bus tours that will take you to the different locations, including the Frost Museum, Villain Theatre, the Wolfsonian, and Mana Studios in Wynwood. All in a celebration of fashion, culture, and the different identities that encompass the Latino community.
@stephsimorka
October 4
This one’s for all the foodies out there. The Latinos Salud Annual Hispanic Heritage Food Bazaar offers a tasty experience with all the richness of flavors the Latino traditions comprise. Not only will you enjoy an endless variety of delicious dishes, the Bazaar’s purpose is supporting and commemorating the National Latinx AIDS Awareness Day. In addition, you can actually participate and be eligible to win some of the great prizes of the night, including best dish, best decoration, or best traditional dress.
Are you ready to party, or what?
Cover photo by @ajwaud
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