Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Evanston & Beyond
Every year from September 15 to October 15, we honor National Hispanic Heritage Month! It is a time to celebrate the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latine communities in the United States.
This month-long celebration coincides with the Independence Days of several Latin American countries, as well as Día de la Raza, which recognizes the blending of Indigenous and European heritage in Mexico.
A Brief History
Hispanic Heritage Month began as Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968, established by President Lyndon Johnson. Twenty years later, President Ronald Reagan expanded the celebration to a full month, and in 1988 it was officially enacted into law. Since then, communities across the nation have come together every fall to celebrate the diversity and resilience of Hispanic and Latine people.
Local Events to Celebrate
There are plenty of opportunities to join the festivities right here in Evanston and nearby communities. Whether you’re looking for cultural performances, family-friendly fun, or opportunities to learn, there’s something for everyone.
City of Evanston
Hispanic Heritage Month Kickoff
Sunday, Sept. 15 | ⏰ Noon–4 p.m. | 📍 Fleetwood Jourdain Community Center
Celebrate the start of Hispanic Heritage Month with music, food, arts and crafts, activities for all ages, and more. Free admission!
Evanston Public Library Programs
Punchcard Raffle: Support Local Latinx-Owned Businesses
Sept. 15–Oct. 15 | Visit at least 5 participating businesses, get your card punched, and enter to win gift cards.How to Make a Michelada Botanera
Sat., Sept. 7 | 6–8 p.m. | Temperance Beer Co. | Ages 21+ | Registration requiredCommunity Talks with OpenCommunities & FLAP
Wed., Sept. 11 | 10–11:30 a.m.
Learn about local resources and workers’ rights.La Plazita with Jorge Mújica (ARISE Chicago)
Fri., Sept. 20 | 6:30–8 p.m.
Presentation on labor laws and immigrant rights, with coffee and dessert.OAsis – Game Day!
Sat., Sept. 21 | 1–2 p.m.
Play traditional table games from Mexico and South America, plus treats from Mekato’s Bakery.Latino Family Game Night
Fri., Sept. 27 | 6–8 p.m.
Trivia, prizes, and food from local restaurants. Special guest host: author Xelena Gonzalez.Laser Cut Papel Picado (Youth + Adults/Teens)
Sun., Sept. 29 & Sun., Oct. 13 | 1–3 p.m.
Create your own papel picado using a Glowforge laser cutter.¡Diversión en español! – Flower Festival
Thurs., Oct. 3 | 4–5:30 p.m.
Craft paper flowers inspired by Colombia’s Feria de las Flores.Sip n’ Paint
Fri., Oct. 4 | 5:30–7:30 p.m.
Art, snacks, and conversation in celebration of Hispanic culture.Being Imperfect with Erika L. Sánchez
Wed., Oct. 9 | 7–8 p.m.
Author of I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter in conversation with Cynthia Pelayo.Suman & Tamale!
Fri., Oct. 11 | 6:30–8 p.m.
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month and Filipino American History Month with food demos, music, and art.Scavenger Hunt, Reading Challenges, and Book Displays
Happening all month long at Robert Crown and Main Library branches.
Evanston Pride, Inc.
Fiesta Hispana
Thurs., Sept. 26 | ⏰ 5–7 p.m. | 📍 Fountain Square
Celebrate unity and culture with mariachi, a piñata, artisan vendors, and a joyful celebration of the intersections between Latinx and LGBTQIA+ communities.
Library & Wilmette Programs
In Focus: Virtual Tour of the Museum of Latin American Art
Thurs., Sept. 19 | 7–8 p.m. | AdultsSpanish-English Bilingual Storytime
Sat., Sept. 21 | 2–2:30 p.m. | Youth Program RoomBook Discussion: Hades, Argentina by Daniel Loedel
Tues., Oct. 8 | 10:30–11:30 a.m. | AdultsMovie Screening: In the Heights (2021)
Sat., Sept. 14 | 7 p.m. | Teens & Adults | Wilmette Theatre
Mark Your Calendar
From cooking demos to cultural talks, games, live music, and art, Evanston and surrounding communities are alive with events to honor Hispanic Heritage Month. Don’t miss the chance to celebrate, learn, and support local Hispanic and Latinx voices.
👉 For the full schedule and registration details, visit: epl.org/hispanicheritagemonth