Hispanic Heritage Month is not only a celebration for Latinos, it is an opportunity for everyone to learn about and take part in the Latin culture, from singing and dancing, to art and music, to mouthwatering traditional dishes. Maybe you’ll celebrate by dining at a Mexican restaurant, take part in an art show, or proudly march in a parade. Whatever you choose, display your Hispanic pride all month long. Happening now until Tuesday, October 15, check out some of the cities hosting awesome events. Here’s where to eat, who to meet, and where to celebrate.
PBS
When: September 17, 8-10:00PM
Can’t partake in a festival or event this year? Not to worry. For the first time ever, PBS is airing a major television documentary that explores Latino culture. The documentary features interviews with more than 100 Latinos and explores more than 500 years of history.
FLORIDA
When: September 18 from 12-1:30PM
Where: Miami Dade College, Kendall Campus, 11011 SW 104th St. Kendall, Kendall
Colombian-American chef and television personality Ingrid Hoffmann will speak to guests and share her success story as a Latina in the food world. She will also be signing copies of her cookbook, Latin D’Lite: Delicious Latin Recipes with a Healthy Twist. Students from the Miami Culinary Institute will also be cooking up some of Hoffmann’s tastiest dishes from her book. This event is free to the public, but get there early as spots are sure to fill up fast.
When: October 12-13 8:00PM
Where: Miami-Dade Fair and Exposition, 10901 Coral Way, Miami
Check out more than 100 vendors and delicious bites and soak in live entertainment at PeruFest. With a goal of promoting Peruvian culture, PeruFest USA will also feature pavilions for jewelry, arts and crafts, clothing, as well as traditional music and paintings representative of Peru. Get your tickets in advance for $15, or purchase at the door for $20.
Next, Texas and New York!
[pagebreak]TEXAS
When: October 9 at 7:00PM
Where: Texas Lutheran University, The Center for Mexican American Studies, LH 112
Head back to school at Texas Lutheran University for a potluck dinner hosted by the Mexican American Student Association (MASA) with special guest speaker Chef Ernest Servantes. Listen to Chef Ernie share his life story, talk about his Chopped: Grill Masters experience, and explain how his life, both personal and professional, has changed since. Bring your favorite dish and settle in for a home cooked dinner.
Festival: The Latino Cultural Center’s 10th Anniversary
When: September 21 at 11:00AM
Where: Latino Cultural Center, 2600 Live Oak St., Dallas
The Latino Cultural Center (LCC) celebrates 10 years of preserving and promoting Latino and Hispanic arts and culture. The 10th Annual Community Festival will proudly feature local art organizations and live performances. A concert from Los Morales Boyz will serve as the opening act to a very special performance by the Grammy Award-winning Los Texmaniacs. This event is free.
When: September 15 – October 15
Where: 610 W. Jefferson Blvd., Dallas
This month-long Mexican experience at El Ranchito Restaurant offers the best in food and music with the finest Mariachi bands. Check out the Bronco Mariachis and San Luis Mariachis while loading up on Tex-Mex favorites cabrito, mollejas and asado de puerco, along with traditional favorites like chile relleno and enchiladas suisas.
NEW YORK
When: October 13 at 11:00AM-5:00PM
Where: Fifth Ave. between 44th and 77th Streets
Over 10,000 participants will march along Fifth Ave for more than 30 blocks to celebrate their culture. Join singers, dancers, and proud Latinos alike in this televised celebration march. This is event is free and open to the public and there’s sure to be plenty of delicious food vendors along the way.
Next, California and Nevada!
[pagebreak]CALIFORNIA
Latin American Heritage Celebration
When: September 20
Where: Angelus Plaza, 255 S. Hill St., Los Angeles
Considered one of the largest outdoor Hispanic celebrations in Los Angeles, the Latin American Heritage Celebration provides not only fun and entertainment, but a unique and enriching learning experience as well. Check out crafts, watch traditional dancing and take in live entertainment, and save some room for snacks and small bites.
The 3rd Annual Taste of Mexico
When: October 11 from 6-11:00 PM
Where: La Plaza de Cultura y Artes, 501 N. Main St., Los Angeles
Food, tequila, and mariachi music, what more do you need? Head down to La Plaza de Cultura y Artes and sample delicious food from some of LA’s best Mexican restaurants. Courtesy of the Taste of Mexico Association, guests are encouraged to come hungry. General admission is $50.
When: September 28-29 from 9:00AM-5:00PM
Where: Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach
Join in the fun at the 12th annual Baja Splash Cultural Festival. Guests can enjoy live musical performances, educational lectures, traditional Hispanic cuisine, and have the opportunity to learn about the animals that call Baja, Mexico home. The aquarium will also feature artwork and cultural displays on the beauty and importance of Hispanic heritage. Get your tickets here.
NEVADA
Hispanic International Day Parade of Nevada
When: October 26 10:00AM-7:00PM
Where: Water Street & the Henderson Events Plaza, 200 South Water Street, Henderson
Who says all of the fun is in Las Vegas? The 13th Annual Hispanic International Day Parade of Nevada invites you to celebrate Latin culture all day. The parade begins at 10:00 am and is followed by the festival, which runs from noon until 7:00pm. Check out live performances, crafts, and traditional food.