September 15th to October 15th is designated as National Hispanic Heritage Month. The month-long designation is a time to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Hispanic Americans.
Pennsylvania is home to a fast-growing Hispanic and Latino community, with the latest census data reporting a population of more than one million: that’s up nearly 50% from 2010. This diverse group of Pennsylvanians – with roots from Mexico, Spain, Cuba, Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and other Latin American and Iberian nations – plays a vital role in making our commonwealth thrive. Our businesses, schools, and communities all benefit from a diverse makeup of Pennsylvanians.
The PA Senate Democrats are committed to recognizing the specific needs and issues facing the Hispanic and Latino community. As community members, we are honored to learn more about the stories, successes, and struggles that have shaped the Hispanic/Latino experience in Pennsylvania, the United States, and beyond.
From September 15th through October 15th, events will be happening throughout the commonwealth to recognize and celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. We encourage you to participate in your local area and recognize the many ways Hispanic/Latino leaders and traditions have contributed to the melting pot that is our country.
2023 Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration
Wednesday, September 20, 2023
Pennsylvania Commission on Latino Affairs
The Governor’s Advisory Commission on Latino Affairs (GACLA) is dedicated to advising the governor on policies and legislation that impact Latino American communities. GACLA and its commissioners have proficiently served Pennsylvania’s growing Latino community since 1971.
GACLA aims to contribute to the governor’s goal of government that works, schools that teach, and jobs that pay, for everyone.
Pennsylvania Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month
Berks
Penn State Berks Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month
Beginning in mid-September, Penn State Berks will celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with a variety of events; each event is intended for a specific audience, including prospective and current students, the campus community, and the general public. Members of the general public must register in advance.
Harrisburg
Latino Hispanic American Community Center Annual Hispanic Heritage Festival
Date – September 16, 2023
10 am – 3 pm
The Latino Hispanic American Community Center will be holding its annual Hispanic Heritage Festival on Saturday, September 16th! Get ready for an exhilarating experience as we kick off the 13th year of this extraordinary festival, dedicated to honoring and embracing the rich traditions of Hispanic Heritage month which goes from September 15th-October 15th.
Philadelphia
Where to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Philadelphia in 2022
Philadelphia goes big for Hispanic Heritage Month. Did you expect anything less?
The national celebration, officially running from September 15 through October 15, 2023, kicks off a little early in Philly with outdoor celebrations like Centro de Oro’s neighborhood-centric Feria del Barrio celebration and the Mexican Independence Day Festival at Penn’s Landing.
Among the other stand-out events taking place during the month: the Puerto Rican Day Parade on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, the Latin America Thrives festival at LOVE Park, Arte en las Calles at Esperanza Arts Center, and various concerts, performances and exhibitions.
Lehigh Valley
Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration
Date – September 29, 2023
12-4 pm
The Lehigh Conference of Churches is hosting a Hispanic Heritage Month celebration! Please join us for food, activities, games, music, and more. All in the community are welcome to join us!
Lancaster
Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration
Date – September 30, 2023
1:00–5:00PM
Binns Park & Ewell Plaza
Celebrate the vibrant tapestry of Lancaster’s Hispanic culture during our joyous tribute to Hispanic Heritage Month. The Hispanic Heritage Festival on Saturday, September 30th will include a full lineup of entertainers from traditional Latin dance to musical acts!
Poconos
LatinX Fest: In Appreciation of Spanish Heritage Month
Date – September 16, 2023
5-10 pm
The Annual Pocono Latin Fest will take place on the beautiful ESU Campus on September 16. Experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of Latin America at an event the whole family will enjoy! Authentic Latin American Food, Music, Live Performances, and entertainment for the whole family.
Pittsburgh
Hispanic Heritage Community Festival
Date – September 30, 2023
9:30 am – 2:00 pm
Celebrate culture, empowerment, and unity at Pittsburgh’s first city-wide Hispanic Heritage Festival! The Community Festival is part of a larger series of events in the Hispanic Heritage Festival by the Pittsburgh Metropolitan Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation, UC Entertainment.