Charlotte Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month
CHARLOTTE CELEBRATES HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH
From passionate dance to flavorful cooking and beyond, Hispanic culture has richly influenced the United Sates for generations and Charlotte is no exception. Nationally, September 15 to October 15 is dedicated to the history, accomplishments, values and creativity of the Hispanic community.
Hispanic Heritage Week began in 1968 in the United States, when President Lyndon Johnson signed Hispanic Heritage Week into law. In 1988, the celebration expanded into a month when President Ronald Reagan signed National Hispanic Heritage Month into law.
Hispanic Heritage Month starts on September 15 because September 15 is independence day for five Latin American countries. In 1821, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua declared their independence.
HISPANIC COMMUNITY IN CHARLOTTE
Charlotte’s Hispanic and Latin communities have grown over the years and Charlotte is proud to be recognized as one of 24 US Certified Welcoming Cities. The largest immigrant group in Charlotte comes from Mexico, representing 22+% of immigrants moving to the Queen City. 4.7% of Charlotte immigrants come from the Honduras; 3.9% come from El Salvador.
With more than 320,000 residents in the Charlotte Region, the Hispanic and Latino communities represent one of the fastest growing segments of the population and are a key driver of the region’s population growth. In total, the Hispanic and Latino communities represent about 11% of the total population in the region. Mecklenburg County, where Charlotte is located, is home to some 170,000 people in the Latino and Hispanic communities. The 2022 U.S. Census American Survey projected the Mecklenburg County Hispanic-Latino population in the following numbers: Mexicans, 58,394; Central Americans, 51,083; South Americans, 19,713; Caribbeans, 27,992. Spanish is spoken by almost 15% of Charlotte’s population.
The journey of Hispanic people to Charlotte started 483 years ago with the voyages of the Spanish explorers through the territories of the Carolinas. Spanish was the first European language heard and spoken in today’s Charlotte. For more information about the history and heritage of Hispanic people in Charlotte, click here.
HOW IS CHARLOTTE CELEBRATING HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH?
LATIN AMERICAN FESTIVAL 2024: September 21
For 34 years, the Latin American Coalition in Charlotte has sponsored the Latin American Festival. This vibrant event celebrates the rich tapestry of 21 countries, showcasing their gastronomy, culture, dance, music, and more. The Latin American Festival will feature its Nations Village, where each country displays its culture. There will also be fun activities for kids. The Festival will take place from 12:00 PM till 9:00 PM in Ballantyne’s Backyard at 11611 North Community House Road. This is a free event.
HISPANIC HERITAGE FESTIVAL OF THE CAROLINAS: September 28
The 3rd Annual Hispanic Heritage Festival of the Carolinas takes place at Truist Field in Uptown Charlotte, starting at 3:00 PM and will run until about 10:00 PM on September 28th. You’ll enjoy some of the best Latin dance, art, and food in Charlotte. Buy tickets for the Hispanic Heritage Festival here.
HOLA CHARLOTTE FESTIVAL: October 3
Charlotte’s Hola Festival will feature feature nationally recognized entertainers and celebrating the heritage of various Latin American countries. Hola Charlotte is the largest Hispanic Heritage celebration in Charlotte highlighting Latin American culture and all its diversity. Countries including Colombia, El Salvador, Panamá, Guatemala, Honduras, México, Brazil, Venezuela, Ecuador, Dominican Republic, Costa Rica, Puerto Rico, and Perú will be represented at the event. Hola Charlotte will take place along Tryon Street in Uptown Charlotte from 12:00 PM till 6:00 PM.
HISPANIC HERITAGE CELEBRATION AT CHARLOTTE MUSEUM OF HISTORY: October 5
Charlotte Museum of History, in partnership with Fiestas Patrias, is presenting the Hispanic Heritage Celebration from 11:00 AM till 5:00 PM on October 5th. The event will include music, dance performances and cultural showcases that celebrate the rich and diverse traditions of 21+ Hispanic cultures. The event is free. The Charlotte Museum of History is located at 3500 Shamrock Drive in Charlotte.
LATIN NIGHT IN CAMP NORTH END: October 12
Celebrate the end of the Hispanic Heritage Month, with live music, dance and Latin bites from 5:00 PM till 10:00 PM. Free for the whole family and don’t forget your dancing shoes! Latin Night at Camp North End takes place in the Boileryard district of Camp North End, which is located at 1824 Statesville Avenue in Charlotte.
