National Hispanic Heritage Month begins today, Sept. 15 and runs through Sunday, Oct. 15. The four-week celebration spotlights the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic Americans with roots in Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America.
Sept. 15 is the date when five Latin American countries declared independence from Spain in 1821 — Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexican Independence Day is Sept. 16 + Chile’s is Sept. 18.
In Louisville, events are rolling out today. Here is a sampling of what the month has in store:
After Hours at the Speed
UofL Cultural Center will have tables with resources that support the Latinx community. There will also be salsa footwork and performances by Brazilian Jazz group Horta Certa. It all starts tonight at 5 p.m.
El Carnivale
The Hispanic Organization & Latino Alliance at Bellarmine hosts a colorful carnival in the quad featuring performances. The event is open to the public tonight at 4:30 p.m.
Latin Music Awards
The biggest awards night of Latin Music in Kentucky is on Saturday, Sept. 16 at 8 p.m. at Bourbon Hall. Celebrate 60+ nominated artists with live performances, awards, a red carpet, and salsa dancing. Tickets range from $35 – $180.
Asamblea Comunitaria
Meet the elected officials at a community forum hosted in Spanish Tuesday, Sept. 19 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Sojourn Church Carlisle.
Copa de la Diversión
On Friday, Sept. 22, the Bats transform into their copa persona, Los Murcielagos at this special game against the Cubs.
This is by no means a comprehensive list of events. Follow accounts like Hispanic Xperience Louisville or Magazine LatinX on Instagram for more events. Or submit your own to our events page.