One of the beautiful things about raising a family in Houston is the vast diversity of cultures, customs, and traditions that we can introduce to our children. As one of the most diverse cities in the nation, Houston is a true melting pot, where people from every corner of the world come together, bringing with them unique languages, backgrounds, and perspectives. This month, we have the opportunity to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Houston from September 15th through October 15th.
The observation of Hispanic Heritage Month was started in 1968 by Texas native, President Lyndon Johnson, to celebrate the historical and cultural contributions made by the people of Mexico, Spain, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. In 1988 the observation was expanded from one week to a month long celebration under President Ronald Reagan (Source).
When we help our kids learn about different cultures and ways of life we help them build empathy and respect for others and open their eyes to the world. According to data from 2020, one in four children in the United States is of Hispanic Origin, meaning 25% of the youth in our country will find their cultures represented in the months celebrations.
As a Mexican-American, celebrating and honoring my history has become even more important to me now that I have children. I want them to know the beauty and warmth of their Mexican heritage and appreciate and value the traditions of their culture. I feel myself yearning to rediscover my Mexican roots the older I get, to make sure I’m keeping them alive through the generations.
Hispanic Heritage Month means something different to everyone, just like someone’s experience of being Latin or Hispanic varies drastically by person. To me, nothing celebrates Hispanic Heritage more than a long afternoon surrounded by family and friends. The kind of gathering where laughter is sandwiched between appetizers and cocktails, and capped off with late night cafecitos. To me, Hispanic Heritage Month is all about warmth, and family, and gathering.
Our city offers a wide variety of opportunities to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Houston, and I’ve compiled a list of family friendly options below.
- September 14 from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm. Hispanic Heritage Celebration at Children’s Museum Houston. On-going activities throughout the day including DIY pinatas, Mariachi performance, story time and Flamenco.
- September 14 from 11:00 am – 6:00 pm. Latin Festival at Pearland Town Center. This free event will feature live performances, delicious food, and lively performances.
- September 15 from 11:00 am – 6:00 pm. Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration at Houston Farmers Market. This free event will feature local arts groups, face painting, live music and more.
- September 20-22. Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Weekend with the Houston Astros. Events throughout the weekend include a fireworks show, street festival, and special giveaways.
- September 20 from 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm. Mexico en el Corazon at Discovery Green. More than 50 performers will take the stage to create a magical night filled with the sights and sounds of Mexico.
- September 21 from 2:00 pm – 3:30 pm. Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration – Ballet Folklorico at Maud Smith Marks Branch Library. Mixteco Ballet Folklorico will be presenting traditional folkloric dances, followed by crafts for kids and refreshments.
- October 2 from 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm. Kids Craft: Hispanic Heritage Month at Freed-Montrose Neighborhood Library. Kids age 5-10 yrs old will be making tissue paper flowers in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month.
- October 19 from 11:00 am – 5:00 pm. Hispanic Heritage and Dia de los Muertos event at Sugar Land Town Square. This free event will include will include live music, entertainment, children’s activities, costume contest, and historical-cultural presentations.
I hope you have a chance to make it out to one of the events, and spend some time reflecting on the things you hold near and dear about your own background and culture. How are you celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month in Houston?
