Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated from September 15 to October 15, highlights the rich history, culture, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities in the United States. Established in 1968, this month-long observance honors the legacies of Hispanic Americans. Local businesses and organizations play a key role in these celebrations, bringing awareness and informing their local communities. Annapolis offers several opportunities to engage, educate, and celebrate these vibrant traditions that continue to inspire and enrich our communities.
Attend Free Events at the Library
One of the best ways to celebrate Hispanic culture and learn more about the rich history is by attending some of the many offerings in your area. The Anne Arundel County Public Library (AACPL) has a host of fun activities and opportunities, some of which are listed below.
- Bilingual Storytime/Cuentos Bilingüe provides the perfect opportunity for story-lovers. Young children can read, write, and listen to stories in both English and Spanish.
- Music Bingo: Hispanic Culture will let you flex your knowledge of the art and music of Hispanic Culture! The songs will be geared toward a teen and adult audience.
- Día de los Muertos Celebration at the Crofton Library branch gives the platform to truly learn and indulge in Hispanic culture and traditions with crafts and a screening of the movie CoCo.
- Flamenco with Arte is a great opportunity for an adult’s night out. Learn about Spain’s infamous dancing traditions while experiencing short performances.
- Make Matchbox Shrines is the perfect event for the creative, art-oriented bunch. Participants will enjoy a combination of art and history as they make tiny ofrendas.
- Trivia Night, an ever-popular classic, will bring out the competitiveness in everyone while also testing your knowledge about the culture!
For a full list of events, visit AACPL’s Hispanic Heritage Month page!
Support Locally Owned Hispanic Restaurants
Food and dining is rooted in history and traditions, passing recipes down from generation to generation. What better way to indulge in the culture than to dine your way around Annapolis! With several locally owned Hispanic restaurants, here’s a list of ones you won’t want to miss:
- Caliente Grill: Boasting a wide array of authentic Latin cuisine, Caliente Grill offers everything from ceviche to churros. Whether you’re looking to dine out for a meal or have an event catered, this Naptown gem has all the bases covered.
- Jalapeños: Consistently recognized as one of the best restaurants in Annapolis, this family-owned restaurant boasts a menu full of traditional Spanish and Mexican cuisine.
- Mi Lindo Cancun Grill: Located on Forest Drive, this restaurant offers a mix of Mexican and Latin American fusion.
- Picante Cocina Mexicana: Brought to life by Oaxaca, Mexico native Fernando Juarez, this Hispanic eatery is filled with dishes made with love from recipes passed down through the family’s generations.
- Pitaya Mexican Restaurant: This hole-in-the-wall restaurant strives to provide vitality, color and flavor in food through fresh ingredients and authentic dishes. Located just outside of Annapolis, in Severna Park, Pitaya has quickly become a crowd favorite.
- Señor’s Chile: With more than one location, this family-owned cantina hones in on authentic Mexican recipes while incorporating Tex-Mex twists on classics.
- Señor Sombrero: Offering a perfect on-the-go experience, Señor Sombrero is a food truck offering classic tacos, burritos, quesadillas, tortas and more!
Hispanic Heritage Month offers a valuable opportunity to celebrate the vibrant cultures, histories, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities. By getting involved, you and your family can foster greater appreciation for diversity and gain deeper insights into the cultural influences that have shaped the fabric of American society. Embracing this month allows for reflection on shared values and learning from the diverse experiences that strengthen the country’s collective future.
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