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. With its inception in 1968, and later enacted into law on August 17, 1988, Hispanic Heritage Month begins on the anniversary of the independence of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexico, Chile, and Belize also celebrate their independence days during September and October. Hispanic Heritage Month is a time of celebration. Heres a sampling of some celebratory events in Phoenix, Odessa, Tulsa, and Seattle. Phoenix, AZ Events: Arizona State University observes Hispanic Heritage Month, by celebrating the histories, cultures, and contributions of the Chicanx, Latinx, Hispanic individuals and groups who identify with and strive to create a more inclusive environment for these communities. Check out ASUs calendar of events as they are updated. The first Phoenix Latino Pride Festival will take place on October 13th at Corona Ranch and Rodeo Grounds and will feature two stages, a large dance tent with 12 DJs, an Art and Expression Tent and a Western Rodeo/Mexican Charreada with the theme of Empowering our Voices for Respect, Justice and Dignity! Odessa, TX Events: Odessa, TX hosts a month-long celebration every year. Check their calendar of events for upcoming details. Seattle, WA Events: In Seattle, the Sea Mar Seattle Fiestas Patrias festivals will begin on September 15th with a traditional parade and community festival in South Park. Guests will also enjoy a variety of Hispanic music, dance, food, art exhibits and a health fair at the Seattle Center. Fiestas Patrias is an expression of Latino culture: music, dance, food, folklore and many other traditions that have accumulated over the centuries. This is a fiesta to celebrate our history while taking pride in the new generations of Latinos that now call the United States home. Tulsa and Oklahoma City, OK Tulsa Performing Arts Center will host the band, La Gozadera on October 3, 2018, and the 13th Annual Fiestas de las Americas will be held on September 29th on Capitol Hill, OK and attracts more than 20,000 visitors. For more information on Hispanic and Latino festivals near you, try this calendar of events and let us know how you celebrated Hispanic Heritage Month at #LifeatWeidner!
