Hispanic Heritage Month

A History of Hispanic Heritage Month

National Hispanic Heritage Month traditionally honors the cultures and contributions of both Hispanic and Latino Americans as we celebrate heritage rooted in all Latin American countries. During this month and throughout the year, the National Park Service and partners, share history, heritage, and accomplishments of Hispanic and Latino Americans of past and present.

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.

 

National Hispanic Heritage Month occurs each year from September 15 through October 15.

Featured Events

AC Latino Festival

AC Latino Festival

Sunday, September 24th, 2023
Piñata Making

Piñata Making

Tuesday, September 26th, 2023
Natural Dyes Club: Marigolds

Natural Dyes Club: Marigolds

Thursday, September 28th, 2023
Fuerza Latina

Fuerza Latina

Monday, October 2nd, 2023
Story Space: Latinx Voices

Story Space: Latinx Voices

Wednesday, October 4th, 2023
Liberators of Latin America

Liberators of Latin America

Wednesday, October 4th, 2023
Salsa y Bachata Night

Salsa y Bachata Night

Monday, October 9th, 2023
Hispanic Heritage Month Farewell

Hispanic Heritage Month Farewell

Tuesday, October 10th, 2023
Hispanic Heritage Month Farewell

Hispanic Heritage Month Farewell

Tuesday, October 10th, 2023

 

Hispanic Heritage Month Resources

Other Resources