History
Hispanic Heritage Month begins on September 15 to align with the independence anniversaries of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. These countries separated from Spain on that date in 1821.
Originally established as a week-long celebration by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1968, the observance was later expanded to a full month following a 1987 proposal by Representative Esteban E. Torres. This expansion, aimed at providing more time to honor Hispanic contributions and culture, was officially signed into law by President Ronald Reagan in 1988.
Since George H.W. Bush issued the inaugural month-long proclamation in 1989, every subsequent U.S. president has continued the tradition of designating mid-September through mid-October as a period of national recognition.
(Source: History.com Editors. (2026, February 6). Hispanic Heritage Month. History. https://www.history.com/articles/hispanic-heritage-month)
Holidays and Traditions
- Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead - Nov 2, 2026): A celebration honoring deceased loved ones with altars, offerings, and festivals, common in Mexico, Guatemala, and Brazil.
- Las Posadas (Dec 16–24, 2026): A reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter, celebrated with processions, songs, and parties.
- Nochebuena (Christmas Eve - Dec 24, 2026): The main Christmas celebration, featuring large family dinners, midnight mass (Misa de Gallo), and often, opening gifts.
- Día de los Reyes Magos (Three Kings Day - Jan 6, 2027): Commemorates the Epiphany with gifts for children, traditionally the primary gift-giving day in many cultures.
- Carnavales (Feb 2027): Vibrant festivals held before Lent, featuring parades, costumes, and music.
- Cinco de Mayo (Wednesday, May 5, 2027): Commemorates the Battle of Puebla, widely celebrated in the U.S. as a reflection of Mexican pride.