Hispanic Heritage Month: A Celebration of Culture and Community
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time set aside each year to recognize and celebrate the history, culture and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities in the United States. It first began in 1968 as a week long observance and was later expanded in 1988 to the 30 day celebration we know today.
From September 15 to October 15, you’ll see events and activities that highlight everything from music and dance to art, food, and important advocacy work. It’s also a chance to shine a light on the incredible impact Latinas and Latinos have had and continue to have across every area of life: business, science, sports, the arts, public service, and more.
The 2025 theme, “Collective Heritage: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future,” reminds us that this celebration is not just about looking back at history, but also about encouraging and uplifting future generations of leaders and changemakers.
Why Hispanic Heritage Month Begins on September 15
You might have noticed that Hispanic Heritage Month doesn’t line up with the traditional calendar. Instead of starting on the first, it kicks off midmonth on September 15th and runs through October 15th.
The timing is intentional. Several Central American countries like Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua all celebrate their independence on September 15th. Right after that is Mexico’s Independence Day on September 16th, followed by Chile’s on September 18th and Belize on September 21st. By beginning in mid-September, the observance connects directly to these historic milestones.
It’s more than just a date on the calendar, it’s a way of honoring resilience, freedom, and the shared spirit of independence that has shaped Hispanic communities across the Americas. Starting Hispanic Heritage Month at this meaningful moment makes the celebration feel deeply connected to the history it’s designed to honor.
What makes Hispanic Heritage Month so important?
Hispanic Heritage Month isn’t just about celebrating traditions, music, or food, it’s about recognition, belonging, and unity. At a time when our nation can feel divided, these celebrations highlight the immense contributions Hispanic and Latin communities make to our shared story, from building neighborhoods and starting businesses to shaping arts, education, and public service.
It’s also a reminder that cultural pride and inclusion strengthen us all. By honoring Hispanic heritage, we affirm that every culture has a place at the table and that diversity isn’t something to fear, it should be something to celebrate.
In short: Hispanic Heritage Month is a living invitation to learn, connect, and move forward together with greater understanding and respect.
We’ve compiled a list that will help you find a place to connect in your local communities. Whether you’re looking for a free community gathering or a ticketed evening event, there’s something here for everyone.
Free Family Friendly Events in Broward County
From concerts under the stars to art exhibits and family friendly festivals, Broward County is buzzing with ways to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in 2025. Cities across the county are hosting cultural showcases, live performances, food markets and interactive activities that highlight the beauty and diversity of Hispanic traditions.
Latin Fest 2025 – Oakland Park
Jaco Pastorius Park
Friday, September 19, 2025 | 6 – 10 PM
Free, family friendly evening honoring Hispanic Heritage with live music, Latin dance performances, food trucks, drinks and fun zones for kids. This event even includes a sensory village designed for children with special needs.
Event details
Hispanic Heritage Celebration – Tamarac
Tamarac Village Amphitheater
Friday, September 19, 2025 | 6:30 PM
Experience an unforgettable night of live salsa, flamenco, and Latin jazz with Grammy winning artist Tomasito Cruz, plus food trucks and free community fun under the stars.
Event details
Hispanic Heritage Concert – Hollywood
ArtsPark at Young Circle
Saturday, September 27 | 7 – 10 PM
Get ready to feel the energy with live music from La Colombianísima and more. This event promises a festive night of culture, rhythm, and community.
Hollywood Hispanic Heritage Event – Hollywood
Armory Recreation Center
Saturday, September 20, 2025 | 4 – 7 PM
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage in Hollywood with an evening of entertainment, cultural pride, and community spirit, honoring the richness of Latin traditions.
Hispanic Heritage Festival – Pembroke Pines
Charles F. Dodge City Center
Saturday, September 27, 2025 | 5–9 PM
A free, family friendly evening packed with live salsa, interactive art, roaming performances, traditional crafts and an inviting marketplace. It’s a warm, festive gathering for all ages to experience music, culture, and community.
Event details
Hispanic Heritage Rock Concert – Weston
Weston Town Center
Saturday, October 4, 2025 | 7–9 PM
Celebrate with Revolution en Español as they deliver a high energy Rock en Español concert full of music, culture, and excitement.
More Ways to Celebrate in Broward County
Beyond the free outdoor festivals, Broward County is also home to art exhibits, evening celebrations, and big name concerts that bring the community together in new ways. Here are a few more highlights you won’t want to miss:
Viva Fort Lauderdale – Fort Lauderdale
History Fort Lauderdale
September 10 – October 19
$15 adults | $12 seniors | $7 students (free for members, military, and children under 6)
This annual multicultural art exhibit showcases works from award-winning artists with roots in Colombia, Venezuela, Spain, and beyond. The celebration kicks off with a free artist meet & greet and preview reception on September 10 at 6 PM, offering visitors the chance to connect with the artists in person before the exhibit officially opens. Throughout the run, guests can explore the galleries daily and enjoy guided tours highlighting the vibrant stories behind each piece.
Event details
Hispanic Pride: An Evening of Culture & Community – Tamarac
Colony West Golf Club
Friday, September 26 | 6 – 10 PM
$15
Families are invited to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with food, music, and the company of local artists and leaders of Broward’s vibrant Latinx community. There will be refreshments, desserts and raffles!
Latin Music Festival – Miramar
Regional Park Amphitheater
Saturday, September 20, 2025 | 7 – 11 PM
Free entry (Parking is $10, pre-payment available)
This is likely one of the biggest concerts in the county for this celebration. Salsa, merengue and reggaetón stars light up the stage. Plus there’s food trucks, dancing, and a vibrant community vibe for an unforgettable night of music and culture.
Celebrate at the Library: Free Programs for All Ages
During Hispanic Heritage Month Broward County Libraries have worked hard to put together free events that feel both fun and meaningful, from bilingual storytimes and hands on crafts to live music and dance performances. There’s something for everyone, and it’s all designed to celebrate culture in ways families can enjoy together.
Our libraries are more than just shelves of books, now more than ever, libraries provide a welcoming space where families can learn, connect, and celebrate traditions together, all while keeping access free and open to everyone.
- IFE-ILE Afro-Cuban Dance Company Performance | Carver Ranches Branch, West Park | Sept 24 | 6 – 7 PM
- Bilingual Storytime (Hora de cuentos bilingüe) | Miramar Branch Library | Sept 25 | 10:30 – 11 AM
- Hispanic Heritage Movie Matinee: The Mask of Zorro | Hollywood Beach Bernice P. Oster Branch | Sept 25 | 3 – 5 PM
- Vendor Craft Sale & Scavenger Hunt | Miramar Branch Library | Sept 27 | 11 AM – 5 PM
- Paint & Craft Activity | Northwest Regional Library, Coral Springs | Sept 30 | 4 – 5 PM
- “From Spain and Beyond” Performance by Alexandra Marie Barreiro | Pompano Beach Library | Oct 4 | 2 – 3 PM
- Stereokinetics Live Performance | Northwest Regional Library, Coral Springs | Oct 4 | 3 – 4 PM
- Amazonia Vocal Ensemble | Weston Library | Oct 11 | 4 – 5 PM
Before You Go
From lively concerts to quiet library story times, there’s truly something for everyone this Hispanic Heritage Month. My hope is that this guide helps you find the events that spark joy for you and your loved ones. Take time to enjoy the music, food, and traditions and the people who make them special.
This month is about honoring the past while inspiring the future, and what better way to do that than by showing up, sharing something you know or learning something new and celebrating together? Grab your calendar, pick a few events that speak to you, and join in the joy happening all across our county.
May this celebration be a reminder that what unites us is always stronger than what divides us.
