By Makayla Rosales, Coordinator, Opportunity & Impact
Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
Hispanic Heritage Month is observed annually from September 15 through October 15 and recognizes the histories, cultures, contributions and achievements of Hispanic and Latino Americans. The month celebrates those whose heritage connects to Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America and South America while highlighting the many ways Hispanic and Latino communities have helped shape the United States. The celebration begins on September 15, the anniversary of the independence for Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua, followed by Mexico and Chile on September 16.
Originally established in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon B. Johnson, the observance was expanded to a month-long celebration in 1988 under President Ronald Reagan. Today, Hispanic Heritage Month serves as an opportunity for workplaces, schools, organizations and communities to deepen their understanding of the rich histories, cultures, traditions and experiences of Hispanic and Latino communities while recognizing their lasting contributions and impact across the United States.
Engage in the workplace
One way to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in the workplace is by strengthening connections with the Hispanic and Latino communities near your business. Consider partnering with local Hispanic and Latino organizations, chambers of commerce, nonprofits and community leaders while also supporting local restaurants, cultural exhibits, performances, festivals and other events that showcase Hispanic and Latino cultures.
Within the workplace, employee resource groups (ERGs) can play an important role in shaping thoughtful and engaging programming. ERGs can help identify opportunities for employees to learn, connect and participate, whether through internal programs or by encouraging departments and teams to attend local Hispanic Heritage Month events together. These experiences can help companies move beyond recognition and create meaningful connections with employees and the broader community.
Another meaningful way to engage employees during Hispanic Heritage Month is to create opportunities for Hispanic and Latino business and corporate leaders to share their experiences, perspectives, and professional journeys. Companies can host an interview-style conversation, fireside chat or panel discussion where leaders share their career paths and personal journeys, as well as insights on leadership and navigating the business community. These conversations provide employees with valuable professional perspectives while highlighting the diverse experiences and contributions of Hispanic and Latino leaders across industries.
September holidays to recognize
Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is observed in 2026 from sundown on Friday, Sept. 11, through nightfall on Sunday, Sept. 13. It marks the beginning of the Jewish High Holy Days and is a time for prayer, reflection and renewal, when individuals consider the past year and set intentions for the year ahead. Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, is observed in 2026 from sundown on Sunday, Sept. 20, through nightfall on Monday, Sept. 21. Considered the holiest day of the Jewish calendar, Yom Kippur concludes the High Holy Day period and is dedicated to reflection, repentance, forgiveness and spiritual renewal.
Additionally, Patriot Day is observed annually on September 11 as a national day of remembrance for the lives lost during the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. It honors the victims, their families, first responders and all lives impacted by the events of the day. Americans are encouraged to reflect and remember through moments of silence, memorial observances and community service.
Attend an event
If you are interested in bringing your team, friends or family to engaging and educational opportunities occurring in June, here are some events:
The Latino Cultural Center | Open Tuesday-Saturday, 10-5 p.m.
2600 Live Oak Street., Dallas, TX, 75204
The Latino Cultural Center (LCC) hosts a variety of multidisciplinary activities for audiences of all ages, backgrounds and experience levels throughout the year. In addition to rotating gallery exhibitions that highlight the work of local, regional and international artists, the LCC offers a range of community-focused programs, including exhibition-related workshops, senior engagement activities, youth art camps and special series that explore diverse cultural traditions.
Dallas Arboretum: Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration and Quinceañera Fashion Show | Saturday, Sept. 12, 10-5 p.m.. & 5-9 p.m.
8525 Garland Rd., Dallas, TX, 75218
The Dallas Arboretum’s Hispanic Heritage Celebration on September 12, celebrates Hispanic culture and traditions through live entertainment, local vendors, family-friendly activities, food and beverages and the popular Quinceañera Fashion Show. The event features both a daytime celebration from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and the separately ticketed Twilight Noches from 5-9 p.m., giving guests a full day of cultural experiences throughout the garden.
Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce: Hecho en Fort Worth Gala | Saturday, Sept. 12, 5:30-11:30 p.m.
Fort Worth Convention Center: 1201 Houston St., Fort Worth, TX, 76102
The Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is hosting an unforgettable evening celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month and honoring the individuals and organizations driving positive change in our community. with over 800 community leaders, partners and guests expected to celebrate in their largest event of the year.
Latinidad Festival 2026 | Saturday, Oct. 3, 6-10 p.m.
Strauss Square, 2389 Flora St., Dallas, TX, 75201
The AT&T Performing Arts Center presents their fifth annual celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. Experience the food, dance, music and cultures of Latin America brought together by the Hispanic and Latino communities of Dallas-Fort Worth and beyond.