Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: Honoring Culture, History, and Community

Every fall, people across the country join together to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 to October 15. This month-long celebration is an opportunity to acknowledge the histories, cultures, and contributions of individuals whose ancestors originated from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

 

At PA Virtual, we believe that celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month is more than just a tradition, it’s a valuable opportunity for students to learn, grow, and connect with one another. In this blog, we’ll explore the origins of Hispanic Heritage Month, discuss its significance, and share practical and creative ways for students and families to celebrate both inside and outside the classroom.

 

Why Do We Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month?

Hispanic Heritage Month first began as Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968 under President Lyndon B. Johnson. It was later expanded to a whole month in 1988. The start date, September 15, is significant because it coincides with the independence days of several Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico celebrates its independence on September 16 and Chile on September 18.

By celebrating during this time, the month reflects important milestones in Latin American history. However, beyond the dates, Hispanic Heritage Month is about recognizing the numerous contributions that Hispanic and Latino people have made and continue to make in various fields, including science, art, literature, music, politics, sports, and education.

 

How Can You Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month?

Here are some engaging and meaningful ways you can celebrate:

 

1. Explore Literature by Hispanic and Latino Authors

Books are a powerful way to bring voices to life. Explore works by authors such as Sandra Cisneros, Gary Soto, Julia Alvarez, and Juan Felipe Herrera. For younger readers, picture books like Carmela Full of Wishes by Matt de la Peña or Islandborn by Junot Díaz can spark meaningful conversations. Visit your local library and check out a book by a Hispanic or Latino author. Read it together and talk about the story’s themes.

 
2. Celebrate With Music and Dance

Music is at the heart of Hispanic culture, with genres ranging from salsa and merengue to mariachi and reggaetón. You may even be able to play traditional songs during transitions of classes or after school. Create a Hispanic Heritage Month playlist at home. Include artists like Selena, Marc Anthony, Gloria Estefan, and Carlos Santana to explore a mix of classic and modern sounds.

 

3. Cook Traditional Foods

Food is one of the easiest ways to celebrate culture. Try cooking pupusas from El Salvador, arroz con pollo from Puerto Rico, or tamales from Mexico together. Cooking as a family opens up conversations about where recipes come from and what they represent.

 

4. Learn a Spanish Word a Day

Post a new Spanish word on the fridge each morning and practice using it throughout the day. Words like familia (family), gracias (thank you), or amigos (friends) are fun and easy for children to remember.

 

5. Watch Family-Friendly Films or Documentaries

Movies such as Coco or Encanto celebrate Hispanic culture and spark great family conversations. For older children, short documentaries or biographies about Hispanic leaders can be both inspiring and educational.

 

6. Do Crafts Together

Try making papel picado (Mexican paper banners), decorating clay pots, or painting inspired by Frida Kahlo. These simple crafts double as fun family bonding time and cultural learning.

 

7. Explore Maps and Geography

Pull out a globe or use an online map to locate Spanish-speaking countries. Have your child learn the capital city or fun facts about each place.

 

A Celebration for Everyone

Hispanic Heritage Month is not just for students who identify as Hispanic or Latino, it’s for everyone. By learning and celebrating together, families and schools foster stronger connections and teach children the importance of learning about diverse cultures and respecting one another.

 

At our school, we take pride in honoring Hispanic Heritage Month both in the classroom and at home. With the help of families, we can continue creating an environment where every child feels celebrated and every culture is valued.