During National Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15-October 15, America celebrates the culture and traditions of Spanish speaking residents who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico, Central America, South America and the Caribbean.
Hispanic Heritage Month Events
- Latino Festival - Fiestia DC - September 23, 2012. The annual event in Downtown Washington, DC includes a parade, a children’s festival, a science fair, arts & crafts, international cuisine and much more.
- Fiesta Musical at the National Zoo - September 16, 2012, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with animal demonstrations, Hispanic and Latino music, costumed dancers, traditional crafts, and Latin American foods.
- Hispanic Heritage Month at the National Museum of American History - Throughout September, the Smithsonian Museum offers special displays, programming and food offerings in their cafeteria. Highlights include The Mexican Revolution! American Legacy, an exhibit that uses images, photographs, a timeline and objects, the case looks at how the Mexican Revolution precipitated a large migration of Mexicans to the United States.
- Hispanic Heritage Month at the National Gallery of Art - September 15 - October 15, 2012. The Gallery presents a wide array of offerings honoring this rich and diverse cultural legacy. The Gallery regularly offers Spanish-language guided tours, audio guides, and printed guides to the art collection.
- Stars, Stripes, & Salsa - October 15, 2012. Warner Theatre, Washington DC. The benefit concert, featuring Tito Puente, Jr., and Gilberto Santa Rosa, will honor the contributions of Latino and Hispanic members of the U.S. Armed Forces.
All proceeds will be donated to charitable organizations that provide comprehensive and culturally competent treatment for Latino and Hispanic service members affected by Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD),Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), major depression, and other invisible war wounds.
- Prince George's County Hispanic Festival - September 16, 2012, noon – 5 p.m. Lane Manor Park, Adelphi, Md. The event highlights Hispanic culture with carnival games, arts and crafts, live music, face painting, pony rides, and ethnic food.
- International Festival of Hispanic Theater - October 9 - November 17, 2012. Gunston Arts Center, Theatre Two, 2700 S. Lang St., Arlington, VA.
Arlington's acclaimed Spanish-language theatre company showcases top visiting theatre troupes from Latin American and Spain.
Hispanic Related Monuments and Memorials in Washington, DC
Many Hispanics have made important contributions to America. National Hispanic Heritage Month is a good time to visit these monuments and learn more about these historic figures.
