Washington, DC

(Washington, DC) – Today, Mayor Muriel Bowser and the Mayor’s Office on Latino Affairs (MOLA) are kicking off celebrations ahead of Hispanic Heritage Month, which officially begins on September 15, 2024. The community is encouraged to participate in a series events throughout the month. Through October 15, MOLA will partner with District agencies and community-based organizations to sponsor a variety of events that celebrate Hispanic heritage across Washington, DC, starting with the 4th Annual “Mi Pequeño El Salvador” Festival and Hispanic Heritage Month Kickoff at noon this Sunday, September 15, at Lamont Plaza in Ward 1.

“From small businesses to artistic and cultural contributions, the impact our Latino communities is woven into the fabric of our city,”  said Mayor Bowser. “As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, we honor the resilience and achievements of Latino residents who continue to drive the District forward.”

Hispanic Heritage Month began as a nationally recognized week-long celebration in 1968 and was expanded to a month-long observance in 1988. September 15 was chosen to commemorate the start of the Mexican War of Independence, which secured independence for Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Honduras, and Nicaragua.

DC’s Latino communities, currently the third-largest ethnic group in the city at 11.7% of the population, have contributed to Washington, DC’s advancement in countless ways.

“Latinos are at the heart of Washington, DC’s culture and community,” said Eduardo Perdomo, Director of the Mayor’s Office on Latino Affairs. “Our history, traditions, and contributions shape the spirit of the city. During Hispanic Heritage Month, we celebrate the rich cultural heritage that Latino’s bring to the nation’s capital.”

Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, the Bowser Administration will sponsor and support the following events:

4th Annual Mi Pequeño El Salvador Festival
Sunday, September 15, 12:00 p.m.
Lamont Plaza (3258 Mt. Pleasant Street NW)
Join us in celebrating the flavors and culture of the largest diaspora in Washington, DC! This event will feature District resources, cultural appreciation, and community building.

RSVP: tinyurl.com/MiPequenoSalvador24

1st Annual Salvadoran Nats Day
Wednesday, September 25, 6:00 p.m.
Nationals Park (1500 S Capitol Street SE)
Celebrate the vibrant and rich culture of the Salvadoran community at a Nationals baseball game.

Purchase tickets: mlb.com/nationals/tickets/specials/hispanic-heritage-day

DC Pupusa Restaurant Hopping
Thursday, September 26 at 6 pm
Gathering Point: Mayor’s Office on Latino Affairs (2000 14th Street NW)
Participating Restaurants: Gloria’s Restaurant (3411 14th St NW), El Amigo Restaurant (3612 14th St NW)
Join the Pupusa Restaurant Tour and discover the authentic flavors of El Salvador in DC.

Fiesta DC Festival
Saturday, September 28 at 12 pm
Pennsylvania Ave NW Between 7th Street NW and 3rd Street NW
Don't miss Fiesta DC, where we will attempt to break the Guinness World Record for the largest pupusa! Enjoy music, food, and lots of fun as we celebrate this historic event.

More information: fiestadc.org

Walk with the Mayor – Fiesta DC Parade
Sunday, September 29 at 12 pm
700 Constitution Ave NW
Residents are invited to walk with Mayor Bowser in the Parade of Nations celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month.

More information: fiestadc.org

Dominican Mural Unveiling
Monday, September 30 at 11:30 am
1616 14th Street NW
Join us for the unveiling of a Dominican mural by artist Angurria. Celebrate the cultural richness and artistic talent that unite us.

 
Celebrating Our Seniors
Thursday, October 3 at 9 am
Lauriol Plaza (1835 18th Street NW)
This event is a heartfelt tribute to our cherished seniors, honoring their invaluable legacy, profound wisdom, and the rich cultural heritage they’ve imparted to future generations.

Latino Book Festival
Sunday, October 6 @ 9 am
Lamont Plaza (3258 Mt. Pleasant Street NW)
Join MOLA for a captivating journey into the rich tapestry of Latino stories, voices, and experiences at the annual Latino Book Festival.

Noche Cultural
Friday, October 18 at 6 pm
The Hamilton Live (600 14th Street NW)
Step into a world of elegance and cultural splendor at Noche Cultural, a mesmerizing evening celebrating Latino arts and traditions with music, dance, and visual arts.

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