Starting September 15 and running through October 15, Hispanic Heritage Month will honor Latinx history and culture. The month was established in 1988 as a nationwide acknowledgment of the contributions of U.S. natives of Caribbean, Mexican, Spanish, Central, and South American descent. Houston’s Hispanic population reflects the breadth of the Latin diaspora, with more than one million Spanish-speaking residents to date. 

Though the Houston Latin Fest has come and gone, there are plenty of opportunities to see live music this month. Take a stroll through East Downtown or indulge in classic dishes with help from our best tacos in Houston roundup. Here are a few of our favorite events so far, and stay tuned for updates throughout the month. 

Latin Arts Showcase and Anniversary Celebration

Thursday, September 15 | Moores Opera House | 6:30-9:30 pm | Tickets vary

Houston’s Arte Público Press celebrates 40 years of Latinx art and literature at Moores Opera House on the University of Houston’s main campus. Join renowned Latinx authors and enjoy performances by the Houston Grand Opera, River Oaks Chamber Orchestra, and more. 

Mexican Independence Day at Picos

Thursday, September 15- Saturday, September 17 | Picos | All Weekend | Prices vary 

What better way to honor Mexican heritage than with an authentic meal? Picos is hosting a three-day celebration in honor of Mexican Independence Day featuring live mariachi, a limited edition menu of chef’s specials, and a tequila tasting for guests.  

Fiestas Patrias

Friday, September 16 | Children's Museum Houston | 10 am-3 pm

Mariachi and Molas make up this exciting daytime event at the Children’s Museum in honor of Mexican Independence Day. General admission will grant families access to the festival, including interactive art-making activities and live music performances through the museum halls. 

Chalk on the Block

Saturday, September 17 | Bagby Park | 10 am- 2 pm | Free

Make your way to Midtown to see some art. Houstonians are invited to celebrate Hispanic heroes at this interactive chalk art event. Local artists will line the sidewalks with 3D images of icons and leaders. Afterward, enjoy drinks and food at La Calle or sign up to play a game of Latino bingo and win a prize. 

El Festival De La Salsa

Sunday, September 25 | Midtown Park | 1-10 pm | $10-40

The fun continues in Midtown for El Festival de la Salsa, one of Houston’s official celebrations of Hispanic Heritage Month. The event will feature live performances by local and international Latin artists, including Maelo Ruiz and Rudy Rincon. Enjoy a bottle of beer sponsored by Michelob Ultra with a sweep of foods from the Latin diaspora or participate in a salsa dance competition.  

Selena: Film Screening

Thursday, September 29 | Rooftop Cinema Club | 7:30 pm | $18.50

All month long, Rooftop Cinema Club is bringing a host of family-friendly classics to the big screen. See Jennifer Lopez star as beloved Tejano pop star Selena Quintanilla Pérez in the 1997 musical drama. Other screening highlights include Encanto (Sept 17) and Coco (Sept 24).  

Fiesta at HCPL

Saturday, October 1 | South Houston Branch Library | 1-5 pm | Free

This free festival will feature fun for the entire family! The lineup includes storytime with award-winning author Jasminne Mendez, craft stations, food, and live music performances by The Essence of Mexico, Apollo Chamber Players, and more. 

Viva Latin America

Saturday, October 15 | Wortham Center| 8 pm 

Olga Tañon Sinfónico and Maestro Glenn Garrido will join guest artists Ángel López and Rubby Pérez in Cullen Theater for the 10th anniversary of Houston Latin American Philharmonic. The ensemble’s annual Viva Latin America event boasts the importance of Latin music through live performances.