“Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to reflect on our contributions and to inspire future generations to continue enriching our society with their creativity and effort.”
— Gabriel García Márquez
Each year, from September 15 to October 15, we celebrate a cultural feast that enriches our daily lives: Hispanic Heritage Month. This month is not just a commemoration; it’s an explosion of color, flavor, rhythm, and storytelling that honors Hispanic and Latino communities who have left an indelible mark on the world.
The Origin of Hispanic Heritage Month
Hispanic Heritage Month begins on September 15, because on this date several Latin American countries celebrate their independence. This day sparks a celebration that continues until October 15, during which we honor the cultural richness these nations bring.
September 15 marks the independence of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. September 16 is Mexico’s Independence Day, and October 12 recalls Christopher Columbus’s arrival in the Americas. Originally, Hispanic culture was celebrated for just a week—established in 1968—but since 1988, it has become a month-long celebration, recognizing the rich history and contributions of the Hispanic community.
Hispanic vs. Latino: A Cultural Clarification
The terms “Hispanic” and “Latino” are often confused. While “Hispanic” refers to people who speak Spanish or come from Spanish-speaking countries, “Latino” includes all people from Latin America, regardless of language. So, although all Hispanics are Latinos, not all Latinos are Hispanics.
To commemorate this month, we invite you to immerse yourself in our rich Hispanic culture through a curated selection of movies, books, music, and food featured below. Get ready to discover and enjoy the best of our Hispanic heritage!
10 Critically Acclaimed Hispanic Films
Film is a vibrant mirror of our cultures. These internationally awarded films highlight the essence of our stories:
- The Mole Agent (2020) – Directed by Maite Alberdi. This Chilean documentary, a Sundance Audience Award winner and Oscar nominee, offers a heartwarming look into life in a Chilean nursing home.
- Roma (2018) – Alfonso Cuarón's poetic vision won 3 Oscars, including Best Director and Best Foreign Language Film, portraying life in Mexico City with unmatched beauty.
- Coco (2017) – Though directed by Lee Unkrich and Adrian Molina, this animated gem celebrates the Día de los Muertos, capturing the soul of Mexican culture. Won 2 Oscars.
- Bad Hair (2013) – Mariana Rondón offers a touching story about identity struggles in Venezuela. Won the Golden Bear in Berlin and Jury Prize in San Sebastián.
- No (2012) – Pablo Larraín’s sharp portrayal of Chilean politics earned an Oscar nomination, depicting the nation's transition to democracy.
- The Secret in Their Eyes (2009) – Juan José Campanella presents a gripping tale of mystery and love, winning the Oscar for Best Foreign Film.
- Pan’s Labyrinth (2006) – Guillermo del Toro’s magical and dark fairy tale won 3 Oscars, including Best Cinematography and Best Makeup.
- Talk to Her (2002) – A gem by Pedro Almodóvar, winner of the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay, exploring loneliness, obsession, and human connection.
- The Goat (2000) – Luis Alberto Lamata paints a vibrant portrait of rural life in Venezuela, winning the Goya Award for Best Ibero-American Film.
- The Strategy of the Snail (1993) – Sergio Cabrera delivers a clever comedy about resistance and solidarity in Colombia, awarded internationally, including the 1996 Goya for Best Ibero-American Film.
Books Filled with Magical Realism
Diving into Hispanic literature is discovering the soul of its culture and voices. Here are some standout works:
- One Hundred Years of Solitude (1967) – Gabriel García Márquez offers a magical realist masterpiece that left an eternal legacy.
- Don Quixote (1605, 1615) – Miguel de Cervantes delivers one of the most influential novels in world literature.
- Pedro Páramo (1955) – Juan Rulfo explores Mexican culture and folklore in this essential novel.
- Doña Bárbara (1929) – Rómulo Gallegos immerses readers in life on the Venezuelan plains.
- Love in the Time of Cholera (1985) – An epic love story by Gabriel García Márquez.
Flavors to Fall in Love With: Hispanic Gastronomy
Food is a feast for the senses and a window into culture. These dishes offer a taste of Hispanic culture:
- Paella – A burst of flavors with seafood, chicken, rabbit, and saffron that defines Spanish cuisine.
- Tacos – Tortillas filled with meat, chicken, or fish, topped with onion, cilantro, and salsa—a Mexican culinary icon.
- Arepas – Cornmeal patties stuffed with meat, cheese, eggs… essential to Venezuelan diets.
- Pabellón Criollo – Shredded beef with rice, black beans, and sweet plantains—the national dish of Venezuela.
- Ajiaco – A thick soup with chicken, potatoes, corn, guasca herbs, and cream, typical of Colombia’s Andean region.
Rhythms That Move Us All
Hispanic music is a vibrant mosaic of rhythms reflecting the richness of our cultures. From the salsa of Marc Anthony and Celia Cruz, to the merengue of Juan Luis Guerra and Elvis Crespo, every style offers a unique Caribbean flavor.
There’s the romantic bachata of Romeo Santos and Aventura; the joyful cumbia and emotional vallenato of Los Ángeles Azules and Carlos Vives; the global Latin pop of Shakira and Ricky Martin; rock in Spanish from Soda Stereo and Maná; classic boleros from Luis Miguel; and modern sounds like Latin trap with Bad Bunny and reggaeton from Daddy Yankee.
These rhythms show the global impact of our music, each genre defining a vital piece of Hispanic identity and cultural diversity.
Hispanic Heritage Month is more than a celebration—it’s a vibrant tribute to the cultural legacy that Hispanics and Latinos contribute to the world. By exploring film, literature, cuisine, and music, we immerse ourselves in a rich cultural tapestry that connects and inspires us.
Every movie, book, dish, and beat captures the creativity, identity, dedication, and essence that keep our culture alive.
Join the celebration—explore and enjoy the cultural wealth that unites us.
Happy Hispanic Heritage Month!
With every story, flavor, and melody, we are building a more vibrant and connected future. Let’s celebrate together!
