By Juliana Octavini
If you are in Orlando this October and want to take a totally different tour to get out of the park routine, you can attend the events that take place in the city in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month.
The celebration – which takes place between days 15 September and 15 October – aims to recognize the culture and traditions of American residents who have their roots in Spain, Mexico and Spanish-speaking nations of Central America, South America and the Caribbean.
As information from the Orlando government, almost 35% of the population of Central Florida identifies themselves as Hispanic and Latin.
But wait a minute. What about Brazil? It is not recognized as Hispanic culture since it was colonized mostly by Portuguese, so, no, Brazilians do not enter this celebration. Rsrs
Still, it is possible to participate in several events that are happening around the city in commemoration of the date.
Check out below the events you can visit during your trip to Orlando:
Art Exhibition “Pioneers of Change: Molding the Future Together”
The show features art pieces from 19 local visual artists inspired by the theme, and honors the Hispanic pioneers who have left their mark in the city and made notable contributions to the well-being, prosperity and visibility of the community worldwide.
When: until November 3, 2024.
Timetable: Every day from 9:00 to 5:00.
Where: Terrace Gallery - 400 South Orange Avenue, Orlando, FL
Free.
Exposure I'm sorry. Viva El Arte!
Until October 31st, the public can confer an exhibition with various forms of 2D and 3D artistic expressions of Hispanic artists from Central Florida.
Location: Winter Garden Art Association – 300 W Plant St, Winter Garden, FL
ScheduleFrom 7:30 to 5:30
Free.
Fiesta Aquatica
Aquatica Orlando Water Park celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with a lot of Latin dance, and delicious treats. Fiesta Aquatica is included in the park's regular ticket and takes place on Saturdays and Sundays until October 23rd.
Disney Springs
By October 15th you will be able to watch live shows and murals of Spanish and Latin American artists all over Disney Springs, as well as be able to buy special products and typical dishes for a limited time. Among the participating restaurants are JALEO, The Ganachery, Amorette’s Patisserie and D-Luxe Burger.
In addition, the JALEO will be distributing free mini flag of Spain on October 12 in honor of the National Day of Spain.
International shows at Dr. Phillips Center
To celebrate the Month of Hispanic Heritage, Dr. Phillips Center presents several renowned artists of Latin music, such as Emmanuel (18 October 2024), Don Soledad Trio with Laura Pirela at Judson’s Live (27 October 2024) and Ana Barbara (10 November 2024).
Location: Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts – 445 S. Magnolia Avenue, Orlando, FL 32801
Kavas Tacos + Tequila
To celebrate the Hispanic Heritage Month, the Kavas Tacos + Tequila restaurant at Pointe Orlando will take a benefit. With each cocktail sold, they will donate $1 to United Arts of Central Florida, a local nonprofit organization that supports dozens of individual Hispanic artists and non-profit organizations led by Hispanics in the counties of Orange, Seminole, Osceola and Lake.
In addition, on October 15, 2024, at 6:30 p.m., they will offer an interactive lesson on the art of making cocktails. Ticket costs 59 dollars, with $5 donated to United Arts of Central Florida.
Hispanic Inheritance Night
A night full of culture, music and various attractions, such as salsa classes, arts and live dance performances. In addition, it is possible to taste several traditional foods in this free event that will be held on October 10, from 6 pm to 8 pm.
Location: Lake Nona YMCA – 9055 Northlake Pkwy, Orlando, FL 32827
ABOUT THE MONTH OF HISPANIC HERANCE
The Hispanic Heritage Month began to be celebrated in the United States in 1968, initially as the National Week of Hispanic Heritage. It was then President Lyndon B. Johnson who proclaimed this week to recognize the contributions of the Hispanic community in the country.
In 1988, President Ronald Reagan expanded the celebration to a full month, from September 15 to October 15, and the celebration became officially recognized as the Month of Hispanic Heritage. Since then, it has been a period dedicated to the appreciation of the culture, history and achievements of Hispano-Americans in the USA.
The starting date coincides with the anniversary of the independence of several Latin American countries, such as Mexico, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. During this period, there are various cultural activities and events, such as parades, exhibitions, festivals and lectures, celebrating the influence of the Hispanic community throughout the United States.
Photos: Disclosure
