As Hispanic Heritage Month approaches, Southern California comes alive with vibrant celebrations honoring the rich cultural contributions of the Hispanic and Latino communities. From art exhibitions that showcase the profound legacy of Chicano artists to festive wine tastings and dynamic performances of Flamenco, there’s no shortage of events to attend. Whether you’re a food and wine enthusiast, an art lover, or a fan of traditional music and dance, these events offer a unique way to connect with Hispanic heritage and immerse yourself in its diverse traditions.
Here’s a list of events happening throughout Southern California.
The Chicano Collection/La Colección Chicana Art Exhibit
Chicano history and culture come to life at The Chicano Collection/La Colección Chicana art exhibit, now on display at the Old Orange County Courthouse in Santa Ana. This collection features giclée reproductions of original paintings from 26 prominent Chicano artists, all curated from the private collection of actor and comedian Cheech Marin. The exhibition highlights urban life and the Chicano experience from 1969 to 2001, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Mexican Americans and Latinos in the Southwest. Alongside the artwork, visitors can view a 25-minute documentary on Chicano art and portraits by Artemio Rodriguez. Admission is free, and the exhibit runs through the end of the year.
Where: 211 W. Santa Ana Blvd., Santa Ana, CA
When: 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday-Friday.
Admission: Free. For more information visit ocparks.com.
Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture
The Cheech Marin Center for Chicano Art & Culture in Riverside opened in June 2022 and drew crowds from all over the world, including Mexico, Europe and South America. The museum was created by actor Cheech Marin and showcases his Chicano art collection influenced by the 1960s protests and other artworks by Mexican artists. During Hispanic Heritage Month, visitors can view several installations, including Cheech’s personal collection, exhibits honoring Chicana activists and artists Yolanda López and Amalia Mesa-Bains, and “Hogar Dulce Hogar” which showcases 18 artists from the Inland Empire that explore the meaning of home amidst global migration.
Where: 3581 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside.
When: 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays, Noon-5 p.m. Fridays, 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Saturdays, Noon- 5 p.m. Sundays.
Tickets: $10.95-$15.95 at riversideartmuseum.org.
Latin Restaurant Weeks
It wouldn’t be a party without food. Latin Restaurant Weeks will be showcasing the diverse flavors of the Latin American diaspora for the first time in Los Angeles and Orange County. The sister organization of Black Restaurant Week, which started in Houston in 2019, has since grown to include Atlanta, Chicago, Miami, and New York City. The initiative helps promote the tasty foods of the vibrant Latino restaurants nationwide. The initiative is a good way to support local businesses in So Cal, who will also offer promotions and specials to provide customers with a little more incentive to visit. It’s an opportunity to try different foods from Guatemala, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Cuba, Puerto Rico and different regions from Mexico.
Where: Los Angeles.
When: Sept. 15 through Sept. 27.
Information: latinrestaurantweeks.com.
Lotería at View Park Bebe Moore Campbell Library
If you’re looking for a fun but competitive family event, try your luck at Lotería. The game is essentially Mexican bingo and translates to lottery in Spanish. The View Park Bebe Moore Campbell Library in Los Angeles is inviting teens 13-17 to compete for prizes. Attendance is limited, and advance registration is required.
Where: 3854 W 54th St., Los Angeles.
When: 4 p.m. Sept. 19.
Tickets: Free but registration is required at visit.lacountylibrary.org.
Para La Cultura: Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
This block party boasts over 50 Hispanic vendors, live music, traditional dances, and tasty cuisines from across Latin America. Guests who RSVP and check in at the Blue Plaza West Covina Booth any time between 5-8 p.m. will be entered to win a $500 Sephora Gift Bundle. The winner will be announced at the end of the night.
Where: Plaza West Covina, 112 Plaza Drive, West Covina.
When: 5 p.m. Sept. 20.
Tickets: Free reservation via eventbrite.com.
Danza! Amalia Hernandez and El Ballet Folklorico de Mexico
Kids ages 5-12 will have an opportunity to learn about the life of Mexican ballet choreographer Amalia Hernandez, who founded the world-renowned Ballet Folklórico de México. After learning about the history of the dance, kids will get a chance to make their own crafts depicting a dancer in a Folklórico dress.
Where: San Dimas Library, 145 N Walnut Ave, San Dimas.
When: 3 – 4 p.m. Sept. 25.
Tickets: Free.
Downtown Downey Night Market: Hispanic Heritage Month w/ Selena Tribute
Join the Downtown Downey Night Market festivities for a special Hispanic Heritage Month celebration. Happening on Sept. 26, the market is bringing over 70 local craft vendors and over 10 food trucks offering a delicious variety of options. Enjoy the free vendor raffle giveaways and groove to a live tribute performance dedicated to the Mexican-American pop icon Selena.
Where: 11002 Downey Avenue, Downey.
When: 5-9 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 26.
Tickets: Free. Eventbrite.com.
Hispanic Heritage Wine Fiesta
Raise a glass to Hispanic culture at the second annual Hispanic Heritage Wine Fiesta in Pasadena. This festive event showcases over 25 wines from Hispanic winemakers across Argentina, Chile, Mexico, Uruguay, and the U.S. Attendees will have the chance to meet expert sommeliers and terroir specialists and learn about the unique flavors and traditions behind each wine. Along with wine tastings, enjoy food pairings designed to enhance the flavors.
Where: 21 South El Molino Avenue, Pasadena.
When: 2- 6 p.m. Oct. 5.
Tickets: $75 with $25 deposit required. Eventbrite.com.
Santa Anita Mall Hispanic Celebration
Honor Hispanic Heritage Month with an afternoon of culture, art, music, and dance at The Shops at Santa Anita. Experience the artistry of Ronnie RO Robles as he creates Hispanic Heritage-inspired art live, and be mesmerized by the Telpochcalli Coyolxauhqui Aztec Dancers’ traditional performances. There will also be dances by Ballet Folklorico International.
Where: Level 1, Center Court, The Shops at Santa Anita, 400 South Baldwin Avenue, Arcadia.
When: 2 p.m. 5 p.m. Oct. 5.
Tickets: Free. Eventbrite.com.
Frida and Flamenco
Celebrate the passion and artistry of flamenco with Frida Kahlo and Flamenco, a concert blending Flamenco and Folklorico styles, presented by Del Sol Productions and the Electric Lodge. Featuring special guest Juan Jose Alba, a renowned Flamenco guitarist, singer, and composer from Spain. Alba, with a distinguished career accompanying top Flamenco artists worldwide, will be joined by Corina Del Sol, Artistic Director and Flamenco dancer, and a cast of international talent.
Where: The Electric Lodge, 1416 Electric Avenue, Los Angeles
When: 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov.17
Tickets: $30 advance, $35 at the door (cash only). Eventbrite.com.