Where to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month
By • September 15, 2025 0 458
Today marks the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month. What began as a week-long observance under President Lyndon Johnson has since expanded into a full 30 days under President Ronald Reagan. The celebration recognizes the contributions and accomplishments of Hispanic Americans. More resources can be found through the Smithsonian.
September 18-October 9
AFI Latin American Film Festival The festival is celebrating 36 years this year and is one of North America’s biggest and longest running of Latin American cinema. Films from Spain and Portugal will be included, celebrating all Hispanic American countries in North, Central and South America. For a complete lineup and tickets, click here.
Opens September 26
Corazon y vida: Lowriding Culture At the National Museum of American History starting September 26 and running through 2029, learn all about lowriding culture. The bilingual exhibit showcases this important car-making tradition and includes pictures, graphics and even two classic cars. More information here.
September 27
The Fotos y Recuerdos Festival
Courtesy National Portrait Gallery.
At 11:30 a.m., head to the National Portrait Gallery and the Smithsonian American Art Museum for a festival with Lil’ Libros. The event will be bilingual and for all ages and activities like art making, dancing, storytime and museum tours will be available. Registration is encouraged and can be done here.
September 27-28
Courtesy FiestaDC.org.
Fiesta DC’s history dates to the 1970s, when it was first held in Mount Pleasant. As it grew, it now has moved to Constitution and Pennsylvania Avenues, becoming a major city festival. The event takes place on the third Sunday of September and features the Parade of the Nations, which honors the array of Latin American cultures and traditions. Check out all the festival has to offer here.
October 4
Fiesta Fairfax in Old Town Square
The Fiesta Fairfax Foundation is a non-profit that devotes its time to uplifting the Latino community. Its main annual event, the Fiesta Fairfax in Old Town Square, has food vendors, artisans and exhibits, performers, speakers and more. Check it out the complete list of things to do here.
