National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed in the United States from September 15th to October 15th each year. Starting in 1968 from a law signed by President Lyndon Johnson, it was originally observed for one week. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan signed the month-long observance into law. This commemorative month recognizes the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans to history, culture, art, and other achievements of the United States.
The starting date was selected to celebrate the five Hispanic countries that declared independence on September 15, 1821: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.
Here are six ways you can celebrate this month with your family:
1. Art and Essay contest: (deadline September 18) The Governor Ron DeSantis’ and First Lady Casey DeSantis’ Hispanic Heritage Month Art Contest is open to all K-3 students and offers four winners a prize of a $100 gift card for art supplies and a year pass to Florida State Parks. The Governor Ron DeSantis’ and First Lady Casey DeSantis’ Hispanic Heritage Month Essay Contest is open to all students attending any Florida school in grades 4-12 (public, charter, private, home or virtual). Six winners will be selected: two elementary school student (grades 4–5), two middle school student (grades 6–8) and two high school student (grades 9–12). Each winner will receive a 2–Year Florida College Plan scholarship provided by the Florida Prepaid College Foundation and a $100 gift card for school supplies. Click here for more information on how to enter.
2. Golden Gate Library Month-long Celebration: On September 29th and 30th, the library will offer a Make and Take Craft event, plus Loteria (Spanish Bingo) on October 30. Come to the library on October 12th and learn about the magical “Alebrijes” from Oaxaca, Mexico. Then participate in a special painting project to create your own Alebrije. Registration is required. The library will also be hosting a variety of other events throughout the month. Go to our calendar to find book discussions, classes, and more.
3. Hispanic Art Around Town:
The ¡ARTE VIVA! festivities kick off with a continuation of exhibitions at the Naples Botanical Garden, showcasing the fusion of nature and artistry. Notably, the exhibition from Michelle Tricca, Face of Immokalee captures the essence of Immokalee’s residents through powerful portraits.
Meanwhile, the Naples Art Institute presents The Naples Invitational, a showcase of diverse and compelling works by local and national artists running until October 15.
As Hispanic Heritage Month commences, Artis—Naples presents Tamara Kostanovsky: Botanical Revolution, an exhibition that combines the elegance of botany with contemporary artistry, running from September to April at The Baker Museum.
4. Discover Florida Hispanic Heritage Facts: Click here for a timeline of Hispanic history, contributions, and influence in Florida.
5. Día de los Muertos at Naples Botanical Garden: November 4, 2023, 10am – 7pm & November 5, 2023, 10am – 4pm Join us in the Garden for a joyous Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) Celebration. With origins in Mexico, this colorful holiday is a time to share memories of loved ones, and celebrate our families and friends. Discover the holiday’s significance and its rich culture though special displays, tours, and arts and crafts stations.
6. Celebrando Latine Through Archaeology! at Immokalee Pioneer Museum at Roberts Ranch: Join us in celebrating Latine Heritage Month at Celebrando Latine! This educational event is dedicated to fostering connections and promoting cultural appreciation. Engage in a series of activities and explore local organizations that showcase the richness of Latine heritage and the wonders of Southwest Florida archaeology. Celebrando Latine is part of the Honrando Nuestra Historia series of events organized by the Florida Public Archaeology Network and taking place throughout Southwest Florida. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to connect, learn, and celebrate Latine heritage through archaeology! Learn more.
7. Family Fun Day at Marco Island Historical Museum: Honrando Nuestra Historia. As a part of Latina Heritage Month, we will have activities and games exploring Hispanic and indigenous contributions to 10,000 Islands region. This event will be geared to families. This is part of the Honrando Nuestra Historia Series of events organized by the Florida Public Archaeology Network and taking place throughout Southwest Florida. Learn more.
8. Vamonos de Parche. 11:00 am to 5 pm. Alliance for the Arts. Food trucks, games, music, kids activities and raffles! We are showing our appreciation for the culinary and performing arts, while cultivating community connections while supporting small and local businesses of Fort Myers. Come experience cultural foods from your local SWFL Community and join us for what is sure to be a fun, free, and family friendly event! Learn more.