Penn State campuses across the commonwealth will host events from mid-September through October to honor National Hispanic Heritage Month. Observed annually from September 15 to October 15, this celebration recognizes the history, culture, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities. This year’s theme is “History, Heritage, Hope.”
Hispanic Heritage Month began in 1968 when Congress authorized President Lyndon B. Johnson to proclaim National Hispanic Heritage Week, timed to coincide with the independence anniversaries of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. In 1989, Congress expanded the observance to a month, highlighting the culture and traditions of communities tracing roots to Spain, Mexico, and Spanish-speaking nations across Central and South America and the Caribbean. Mexico and Chile also celebrate independence during the month on September 16 and 18.
At University Park, the Happy Valley Latin Festival on September 20 features music, arts, food, and community activities. Families can enjoy performances by La Fiesta Band, visit local vendors, and explore resources at the PRCC and Hispanic Heritage Month tables.
The Immigration Act of 1965: 60 Years Later discussion on September 17 explores the lasting impact of this law on U.S. demographics, politics, and culture. Panelists include faculty from history, sociology, and law, as well as community leaders.
The Community Ofrenda on September 19 invites participants to honor loved ones and reflect on heritage through a ceremonial altar. The ofrenda remains on display until October 10.
The College of Health and Human Development hosts a Hispanic Heritage Movie Night on September 19 featuring West Side Story (2021). Families can join Children’s Day at Schlow Library on September 21 for crafts, games, and cultural activities for children ages 3 and up.
October events include the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers Festival on October 1 and the NAMLA x NOMAS Cultural Celebration on October 2 with music, workshops, and Hispanic-inspired food.
The Fun Friday at PRCC on October 3 provides games, art, and food in a welcoming space. The Hispanic Heritage Month Cultural Night later that evening features music, dance, food, and a keynote speech by Abraham Amorós. Seating is limited to 250 guests on a first-come, first-served basis.
The Cross-College Hispanic Trailblazer Gallery on October 6 showcases achievements of Hispanic faculty and alumni. The Hispanic Heritage Cultural Showcase on October 9 presents food, music, and traditions highlighting the Latino community’s contributions.
The Dolores Huerta Day of Service: “¡Sí, se puede!” includes a harvest at the Student Farm on October 5 and serving meals at St. Andrew’s Café on October 9, honoring Huerta’s legacy of community and justice.
These events offer students, faculty, and community members opportunities to celebrate Penn State Hispanic Heritage, explore cultural traditions, and engage with local and university communities. For full schedules and updates, visit Penn State’s Hispanic Heritage Month website.
