Hispanic Heritage Month is observed annually from September 15 to October 15 in the United States.
It honors the histories, cultures, and contributions of people whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.
The celebration begins on September 15 because it is the anniversary of independence for several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.
It’s a time to recognize the rich traditions, languages, arts, and achievements of Hispanic and Latino communities and their important role in shaping American history and culture.
TEACHING RESOURCES
Hispanic Heritage Month
National Education Association: "Through this list of curated resources, books, lessons, videos and activities, we invite you to explore, learn, and celebrate the vibrant heritage and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities to our world."
National Museum of the American Latino
- Latino Culture: Learn about the diverse Latino culture and how it has contributed to the society and culture of the United States.
- Latin Independence Days: Learn about the different Independence Days across Latin America and how they are celebrated and honored each year.
- Latin Food: Explore Latino recipes and learn about special events that Latino dishes are a central part of.
- Famous Latinos: Learn about famous Latinos and Latinas who have helped to shape the history and culture of the United States.
- Latino Art: Discover Latino artists who have used their unique experiences to help shape American culture through creative forms.
- Hispanic Heritage Month Educational Resources: Find all the Hispanic Heritage Month resources you need to teach yourself and others about Hispanic heritage and culture.
Latinx Kidlit Book Database
This free database offers the ability to sort by age category, genre, theme, representation, and more, making it easier for teachers, librarians, and book lovers to find books by Latinx creators from picture books to young adult.
8 Ideas for Teaching Hispanic Heritage Month
Anti-Defamation League (ADL): "In commemoration of National Hispanic Heritage Month, we present this resource to help teachers engage students in thinking broadly and critically about the Hispanic American experience in all of its complexity. In highlighting the significant events as well as people that have made a substantial contribution to the Latino/Hispanic experience, instruction should incorporate history, literature, point of view, politics, first-person experience, the arts, and the struggle for equity."
Colorín Colorado
Colorín Colorado celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with dynamic booklists, classroom activities, and multimedia resources. These are great materials for the curriculum year-round!
The Ultimate Guide to Hispanic Heritage Month Activities
Spanish Mama provides background information about Hispanic Heritage Month (why we celebrate it, why it begins in the middle of a month) and many meaningful activity suggestions.
24 Fun Activities to Honor Hispanic Heritage Month
Celebrate with virtual visits, traditional cooking, crafts, and more from We Are Teachers.
Tradiciones: Latino Music from Smithsonian Folkways
From Argentine folk classics by Suni Paz to Chicano rock originals by East LA’s Quetzal, this playlist demonstrates the diversity of Latino musical heritage across Latin America and within the United States.