Hispanic Heritage Month
El Mes de la Herencia Hispana. Hispanic Heritage Month.Hispanic Heritage Month is a month-long celebration of the rich history, culture, and traditions of Hispanic and Latino communities. While our appreciation for these communities extends all year long, from September 15 to October 15, we shine an extra spotlight, con mucho orgullo, on the many contributions made to the history and culture of the United States: powerful advocacy work, vibrant art, beloved comida both traditional and modern, and so much more.
¿Quieres aprender más? Want to learn more?
Visit the National Museum of the American Latino to discover the incredible impact Latinas and Latinos have had on the United States.
Explore the National Hispanic Cultural Center, a world-class center for Hispanic arts and culture dedicated to preserving, promoting, and advancing Hispanic culture, art, and the humanities.
As you may already know, the Land of Enchantment has the highest percentage of Hispanic ancestry of any U.S. state, with nearly half of its population sharing roots that stretch back more than 400 years. Learn more about our historic sites, including the Coronado Historic Site and Casa San Ysidro, along with other places to visit right here in our state from New Mexico True.
En Nuestra Comunidad y Nuestras Escuelas. In Our Community and FMS.
Locally, San Juan College and the Herencia Latina Center celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with wonderful events that highlight the history, creativity, and lasting legacy of Hispanic and Latino culture and communities. You can also visit the Farmington Museum for excellent cultural events.
At FMS, proudly the most diverse school district in New Mexico, with a third of our student population identifying as Hispanic, we honor la Herencia Hispana right in our classrooms.
At Esperanza Elementary, students and staff celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by sharing their culture and pride through a series of beautiful performances. The program typically features lively and colorful numbers, like the rock en español classic "La Plaga," the traditional Mexican folk dance "La Raspa," the catchy Mexican polka "Jesusita en Chihuahua," and the beloved song "La Carcacha."
At McCormick Elementary, the school year ends with the annual McCormick Fiesta, a wonderful bilingual celebration of Latin culture and music. Don't miss it, and watch for our kindergarteners to steal the show performing "La Boda del Huitlacoche," a lively corrido norteño about a wedding celebration. Their energy and enthusiasm always light up the stage.
A Bit of History
In 1968, Hispanic Heritage Month began as a weeklong celebration under President Johnson. Twenty years later, in 1988, President Reagan expanded it to a full month.
The dates of the celebration are historically significant: several Central American countries celebrate their independence within this window. September 15 marks independence for Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua; September 16 for Mexico; September 18 for Chile; and September 21 for Belize.
Latinas and Latinos have spent centuries expressing and preserving these identities, all of which have contributed to the culture of the United States. The best way to learn about a culture is to immerse yourself in it.