Download Plenty of Americans feast on these foods throughout the year

Plenty of Americans feast on these foods throughout the year. But Hispanic Heritage Month is an
especially good chance to pile up your plate. This celebration runs annually from September 15 through
October 15. It's a time to salute Hispanic Americans, honor Hispanic history and traditions, and celebrate
Hispanic cultural heritage—including its varied and flavorful culinary creations.
Starting Hispanic Heritage Month midway through September instead of at the beginning of the month
might seem odd, but it actually makes a lot of sense. That's because September 15 is the date that five
Latin American countries observe their Independence Day: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala,
Honduras, and Nicaragua. Other Latin American countries mark their Independence Day on neighboring
dates. Mexico's falls on September 16, and Chile's is on the 18th.
Hispanic Heritage Month honors all Americans who are from—or whose families are from—the many
places across the globe where Spanish is the primary language. That includes countries in South
America, Central America, and the Caribbean, as well as Mexico and Spain.
All in all, there are about 60 million Hispanic Americans in the United States. This mighty multitude is the
nation's second largest ethnic group. It represents about 20 percent of the total U.S. population.
Hispanic Americans hail from many parts of the world. In terms of numbers, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cuba,
El Salvador, and the Dominican Republic are the top five areas of origin.
But no matter where their families are from, all residents of the U.S. are invited to celebrate Hispanic
Heritage Month. At parades, parties, and festivals across the country, revelers raise flags from around
the world and honor the diverse cultures of Hispanic Americans. The sights and sounds at these events
include colorful costumes, lively dancing, and lots of music. Musicians perform traditional styles such as
ranchera, cumbia, salsa, and merengue, as well as modern genres like Latin hip-hop and reggaeton. Of
course, celebrants need sustenance to fuel all that fun, so the festivities usually feature a plenitude of
delicious, authentic foods.
But Hispanic Heritage Month is about more than tasty treats and Latin beats. It's a time to remember
Hispanic history and pay tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans who have made important
contributions to the United States. In every aspect of American life, from government and business to
science, literature, and art, Hispanic leaders and pioneers have had a lasting impact. Museums, libraries,
and schools mark the month with exhibits, workshops, performances, and other events that highlight
the achievements of Hispanic Americans. Kids and teens can get involved, too. Every year, the National
Council of Hispanic Employment Program Managers chooses a unique theme for Hispanic Heritage
Month. Young people are invited to submit short essays and posters that bring the theme to life.
However people mark the occasion, Hispanic Heritage Month is a chance for all Americans to celebrate
Hispanic American culture—past, present, and future. ¡Viva Hispanic Heritage Month