From September 15 to October 15, join PSRC as we recognize and celebrate the vibrant and diverse culture, traditions and historical achievements of people who come from Mexico, Central and South America, the Caribbean and Spain.
In June 1968, California Congressman George E. Brown introduced National Hispanic Heritage week, to recognize the contributions of the Hispanic community in the United States. It was signed into law on September 17, 1968. Twenty years later, George H.W. Bush declared a 31-day period from September 15 to October 15 as National Hispanic Heritage Month.
The 31-day period coincides with the Independence Day celebrations of many Latin American Countries. Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua declared their independence on September 15, 1821, and Mexico declared their independence September 16, 1810.
Hispanic and Latino culture remains an integral part of American culture through their music, food, and community. Join your neighbors and celebrate Latino culture and art in the region at one of these local events:
MEXAM NW Festival | Sep. 7–Oct. 19
A month-long festival all throughout the region! Check the website to find new events.
¡Radical! A Social Justice Art Show at Nepantla | Sep. 7–29
An art exhibition that speaks to social oppression, change, progress, and revolution. The gallery is free to view and will be on display until Sep. 29.
Comida y Corazón: Latino Food Drive | Sep. 14–Oct. 15
The region’s first culturally inclusive food bank organization has some big plans to “increase cultural food donations.” Try the different variations of pozoles, a traditional hominy soup, from all over Mexico.
Hispanic Heritage Month at Westfield Southcenter | Sep. 20
Southcenter will be hosting a Hispanic Heritage month celebration with music and live performances that reflect the Latino community of Tukwila. Visitors will also be offered a range of food samples.
Tierra y Tradición | Sep. 21
ECOSS, formerly known as the Environmental Coalition of South Seattle, a nonprofit that focuses on providing sustainable solutions to immigrant and refugee communities, is hosting a day full of outdoor activities at Seward Park on Sep. 21 to celebrate Latino Conservation Week.
BTown Fiesta | Sep. 21
Burien is bringing back its annual celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month. Local Latino vendors and business owners will fill the town center with music, dance lessons, karaoke, games for the kiddos, and more.
Seatac MicroMercado | Sep. 21
The city of SeaTac has partnered with Growing Contigo to host a “MicroMercado” (mini market) at the Angle Lake Station. Expect wonderful food and gift vendors, and a day full of cultural performances. The first 25 people to show up will get a free bag full of “goodies.”
Rhythms of Resilience | Sep. 21
At Fisher Pavilion, there will be music, food, and special guests, Sen. Rebecca Saldaña and Poet Claudia Castro Luna. Celebrate 30 years of Casa Latina, a nonprofit that works to help Latino and immigrant communities