Austin celebrations are like no other! This is especially true for how most of us celebrate diversity and each other’s history with great enthusiasm. Let’s talk about Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 to October 15. This is a great time to learn about contributions Latinos and Hispanics have made in our city and go out and enjoy some family fun. Here is a quick guide to help with the celebrations.
Who, what, when and where you ask?
It all started in 1968, when President Lyndon Johnson signed Hispanic Heritage week into law. Then in 1988 it was expanded into a full month national celebration, because we know how to party! Ok, maybe it’s not exactly because of that, but I like to think so!
Eight out of 20 beautiful countries whose official language is Spanish celebrate their independence on the days between September 15th and 21st. Nice! This makes it this the perfect month to celebrate!
Here are a few of the places you can go to in Austin to learn more about the culture and history we love. They have all moved a lot of fun activities online due to these uncertain times so check out their links when you have some free time!
Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center – They are incredible. They have galleries and theaters that feature works from artists from all over Latin America! Check out their Virtual Viva Mexico celebrations from September 16 HERE!
La Peña Gallery – Opened by two sisters to showcase art into Austin. “La Peña’s mission is to support artistic development, to provide exposure to emerging local visual artists, musicians, poets and other performing artists, and to offer Austin residents the full spectrum of traditional and contemporary Latino art.”
Mexic-Arte Museum – Found in the heart of Austin, this Museum is so pretty and I want everything in their gift shop! It’s just a fun place to visit. “Mexic-Arte Museum is dedicated to cultural enrichment and education through the collection, preservation and presentation of traditional and contemporary Mexican, Latino, and Latin American art and culture to promote dialogue and develop understanding for visitors of all ages.”
It also hosts my favorite parade of all for Day of the Dead called Viva la Vida in October. I am not sure if they will be able to have all of the activities this year, but certainly worth keeping an eye out for.
Teatro Vivo – Go catch a bilingual show here while you learn about the culture. It’s a must do! “Teatro Vivo’s mission is to produce culturally relevant Latino theatre that addresses critical social issues. Teatro Vivo serves the community by telling the Latino story, positively reflecting the Latino community and uniquely celebrating the vibrancy of the Latino culture and the power of the human experience.” I love that!
Know of any others? Please let us know!
Want to do more?
Explore restaurants around you and try something new! There are so many food options for you out there from our Spanish speaking friends and neighbors! What are your favorites?
Here is a map of Spanish speaking countries the help in your search for places that serve outstanding and delicious food. I bet we can find some truly authentic options around. Any ideas?
(Check out the Best Tacos in Austin by a fabulous fellow AMB mama to guide you in the taco department, which is always a good thing!)
Don’t forget to shop local! Help support your local businesses, too!We really need to support one another during this crazy time.
Lastly, have you seen this? Not all Austin based, but still a pretty cool way to show some support!
32 Latinx-Owned Businesses To Support During Hispanic Heritage Month
¡Celebren con cuidado, amigos!
(Celebrate Safely, friends)
Photo Credit :: Laura Morsman Photography
