Hispanic Heritage Month is a celebration of the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America. First started as Hispanic Heritage week in 1968, then expanded to Hispanic Heritage month in 1988, runs from September 15th – October 15th. This is a time for Hispanics and non-Hispanics to show support to the Hispanic community. Here are a few ways you can participate in events and show support!
Celebrate the Latin American culture by attending the 9th Annual Hola Festival on October 9, 2021 in uptown, which is the largest Hispanic Heritage celebration in the Queen City. The event engages both general market and Hispanics of all backgrounds and ages. It features nationally recognized entertainers and a Latin American cultural village highlighting the heritage and culture of 15 Latin American countries – providing an avenue for sponsors to brand their products.
Support local shops owned and operated by local Hispanics such as Pura Vida Wordly Art located in the Noda District. Pura Vida was opened by Teresa Hernandez, who is from Mexico, to share the crafts of local artisans from over 40 different countries to Charlotteans in her store. Her focus is to connect the artistic culture from different countries to Charlotte. Products are handmade from all over the world.
Visit and enjoy a meal from local Hispanic restaurants. Charlotte is home to a variety of amazing restaurants with cuisine from countries from all over the world. Here are a few to consider: Ely Tortilleria, The Batch Maker Bake House; La Caseta; and Tacos El Nevado.
Support local community initiatives such as Latinos in Charlotte and Circle de Luz. Latinos in Charlotte was started in 2016 by Javier Morales, as a means of informing the Hispanic/LatinX community about local events, cultural events, community initiatives, immigration news and etc. Circle de Luz was founded in 2008 with a groundbreaking approach to the issue of the high drop-out rate of Latina girls. At the time, and still today, Latinas have the highest drop-out rate of any ethnic group in the country. Circle de Luz does its work by selecting a small cohort group of Latinas in seventh grade whom they then support and follow through high school graduation.
Attend the Puerto Rican Festival of the Carolinas held on October 2, 2021 beginning 12PM at the Park Expo. The Puerto Rican Festival celebrates Puerto Rican culture, food, dance and folklore. Highlights include performances by salsa singer Charlie Aponte, Grupo Mania, Roberto Roena y su Apollo Sound and a special tribute to Ismael Rivera by El Nuevo Tumbao. There will also be a celebration of the merengueras de Puerto Rico by Cristina Medina.
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