Whether you hit the road, visit a bookstore or go online, you can show support for Hispanic Americans and learn about other cultures during Hispanic American Month, Sept. 15-Oct. 15. You may find events and activities in your local community by searching online using the words “Hispanic Heritage Month” or by the websites of nearby colleges and universities.
For example, Southern Illinois University in Carbondale kicks off Hispanic Heritage Month with a celebration and reception Sept. 19 at its Student Center Auditorium. On Oct. 7, SIU will host Festival Latino, featuring Salsa Ambassador and Saluki alumnus Julio Barrenzuela, and Son Monarcas, a Latin fusion ensemble led by Mercedes Inez and Irekani Ferreyra. Find out more information on these and other SIU events during the monthlong celebration.
In Peoria, events include:
- Sept. 24 – Latin Night Social at Hacienda el Mirador
- Oct. 8 – Hispanic Heritage Gala at the Riverfront Museum
- Oct. 15 – Art Inc. will host Dia De Muertos (Day of the Dead) on Jefferson St. in Peoria
In Chicago, you can attend several special events at different locations:
- Sept. 21, 28, Oct. 5, 12 – Bilingual story time at The Field Museum
- Oct. 1 – Ensemble Español at Auditorium Theatre features global flamenco superstar La Lupi
- Oct. 14-16 – Runway Latinx 2022 the Reboot – Over three days, national and international Latinx fashion designers will gather at different locations for a fashion show/reception, gala/VIP reception and an influencer’s panel.
- Oct. 15 – Imagine Better Presented by Ballet 5:8 – a female and minority-led ballet will perform at the Athenaeum Center
- Oct. 15 – Slow & Low: Chicago Lowrider Festival – More than 350 customized cars, bicycles and motorcycles will be on display at Navy Pier’s Festival Hall, celebrating Lowrider culture, community and art.
Places to learn online include:
- the International Latino Cultural Center of Chicago
- the University of Illinois-Chicago Latino Cultural Center
- the Pilsen Arts and Community House
- the National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts and Culture
- the National Museum of Mexican Art
Remember, Hispanic Heritage Month recognizes and celebrates the histories, cultures and contributions of the people of Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America and South America.
