Running from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, Hispanic Heritage Month is a celebration of the contributions, history, and culture of Hispanic Americans. Why the odd start date? It marks the anniversary of the Cry of Dolores, or the start of the Mexican War of Independence, which led to the independence of Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Honduras, and Nicaragua from Spain.
Our community is teeming with Latin American culture, and we’ve mapped out some local events for the occasion, as well as Hispanic-owned businesses you can support all year long.
Crafters, head over to the Tufting House in Fort Lauderdale, where you and your friends can create your own custom rugs. The sky's the limit, from Pokemon characters, flowers, emojis, pop art, and many more design options. At the helm of the business is Alex Antonio, her partner Amanda Antonio, and Jorge Parrado.
This coffee shop is synonymous with all things cozy and kitsch, thanks to the stylings of owners Emilio and Jimena Dominguez. The original location sits in The Cove shopping center in Deerfield Beach, and the couple recently expanded the operation to Fort Lauderdale’s Victoria Park. Indulge in an assortment of exquisite coffees and teas, and savor an array of delectable snacks, including different versions of avocado toast, sumptuous paninis, fresh salads, delicious desserts, and much more.
Domingo “Mingo” Olavarria accidentally discovered pottery after a biking accident, but the Venezuelan American never turned back. Now, he’s the owner of a Fort Lauderdale pottery studio, teaching newbies how to throw clay or make a ramen bowl coffee mug and more advanced courses for anyone who falls in love with the art.
Husband and wife duo Christie Tenaud of Peru and Roberto Colombi of Italy joined their culinary forces to open the doors to this Wilton Manors restaurant, serving up street corn deviled eggs, grilled octopus, crab risotto, and other delicious plates. The two also regularly host wine-pairing dinners, allowing guests to travel around the world one bottle at a time, so be sure to review their calendar of events. Now through September 30, you can experience their $45 Dine Out Lauderdale 3-course menu. You can check out even more Hispanic-owned restaurants throughout Greater Fort Lauderdale.
Recently opened in Fort Lauderdale's Flagler Village, AQUI Bar & Kitchens is a joint venture by Puerto Rican Chef Gino Pérez-Ferrari, the mastermind behind the eclectic menu. It features a diverse blend of Asian-fusion cuisine, Mediterranean nibbles, and comforting Mexican delicacies. The brunch offerings are also irresistibly delicious, with highlights such as the caramelized Brûlée French Toast and the flavorful Smoked Salmon Tostada. If you’re visiting Greater Fort Lauderdale in the month of September, you can experience their exclusive $55 Dine Out Lauderdale 3-course menu.
Events
Baila Pompano
Put your best foot forward for the start of Hispanic Heritage Month at the Pompano Beach Cultural Center on Sept. 15, with Latin dancer and instructor Alex Bezianis leading lessons on salsa, bachata, and other Latin dances set to a live band and DJ.
En La Florida
Works by local Latin artists will be on display at the Southwest Regional Library from Sept. 15 to Oct. 21. Other libraries throughout Greater Fort Lauderdale will also be hosting their own events, from book displays and children’s crafts to art exhibits.
Latin Music Festival
Get ready to immerse yourself in a night filled with Latin rhythms, delectable food, and endless dancing at the Miramar Latin Music Festival on Sept. 16. Hosted by the City of Miramar, this free event promises a night to remember with live music featuring Salsa, Bachata, Merengue, Reggaeton, Rumba, Samba, and more.
Viva Fort Lauderdale
Artists of Hispanic heritage will have their work showcased at History Fort Lauderdale from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, including Leonardo Montoya (Colombia), Lifrancis Rojas (Venezuela), Isabel Perez Salazar (Venezuela), and Florencia Clement de Grandprey (Spain). A meet and greet is scheduled for Sept. 14.
The MKT at the LOOP
Each Sunday throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, the Las Olas Oceanside Park (The Loop) will be hosting live music from the wide-ranging Latin genre. The weekend of Sept. 29 to Oct. 1, expect a bash filled with special cooking demonstrations, flamenco dance lessons, Loteria (Mexican Bingo) games, and live music.
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino has a series of events planned, from a dining pop-up with Chef Michelle Bernstein at Abiakia from Sept. 28 to Oct. 1, to Noches de Neon at The Guitar Hotel pool on Sept. 29. The Hard Rock Live lineup includes Juan Luis Guerra, Becky G, and other Latin music artists. Additionally, a memorabilia vault showcasing items from prominent Hispanic performers, such as Celia Cruz, Ricky Martin, Shakira, Gloria Estefan, and Rosalía, will be on display at the Oculus Bar.
