Each year, Americans observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from Sept. 15 to Oct. 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 Sept. 15 and ending on Oct. 15. It was enacted into law on Aug. 17, 1988.
The day of Sept. 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 Sept. 16 and Sept. respectively. Also, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, which is Oct. 12, falls within this 30-day period.
Arlington County is proud of its tremendous diversity. We invite you to join us in paying tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our community, our nation and our society. In addition to the numerous independence day and national festivals, Arlington hosts a number of activities during Hispanic Heritage Month; please join us!
2016 Festival Latinoamericano – Sun., Oct. 9, 1-5 p.m.
Our signature event. Join us as we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with live music, authentic Latino food, artistic presentations, games for kids and much more at Arlington Mill Community Center!
An Argentine Musicale — Thurs., Sept. 15, 2-4:30 p.m.
A festive night of spectacular live music and performances to celebrate the Hispanic Heritage Month at the Rosslyn Spectrum Theatre. The event will feature performances of Argentinian artists who represent the quality and growth of local artists in the United States.
Thursday Movie Matinee: “Instructions Not Included” — Wed., Sept. 14, 6:30-9:30 p.m.
Catch films on the first and third Thursday of each month at Columbia Pike Branch Library. “Instructions Not Included” will be shown in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month.
Learn How to Prepare Mexican Cuisine — Sat., Sept. 17, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by learning how to prepare quesadillas and fajitas. Samples provided by Cantina Mexicana Restaurant. Space is limited and registration is required. Register online here.
U.S. Army Band Latin Combo Presents “Pershing’s Own” — Fri., Sept. 23, 6-8 p.m.
Arlington celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with a performance by the U.S. Army Band Latin Combo. Led by SFC Antonio Orta, who hails from Puerto Rico, the band’s music will fill the outdoor plaza at Arlington Mill Community Center. Performance is weather permitting and no rain date will be scheduled.
Arlington County Board Hispanic Heritage Month Proclamation
The County Board’s official recognition of the importance of Hispanic Heritage Month.
Additional resources:
- National Hispanic Heritage Month website — with links to tributes and activities at Library of Congress, National Gallery of Art, National Park Service, Smithsonian, and more.
- Arlington Teens blog — an Arlington teen writes about celebrating her Hispanic heritage.