From September 15th to October 15th, Hispanic Heritage Month is a national month-long celebration that is observed in the United States to highlight the contributions, achievements, cultures and histories of Hispanic and Latinx Americans. By participating, we can educate ourselves and recognize the creativity and curiosity in different cultures within our own communities. With exciting upcoming events and lots of inspiration for fun activities, there are many ways you, your friends and your family can celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month!

A great way to meet and connect with Hispanic and Latinx people in your community is to attend a public event! There are lots of events scheduled during Hispanic Heritage Month that are happening all around Northwest Arkansas. To

launch Hispanic Heritage Month, the Scott Family Amazeum is hosting a special Community Spotlight event on Wednesday, September 14th from 3 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.!  Admission will be pay-as-you-wish during Priceless Night from 4:00 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Join us to celebrate local Latinx makers and organizations who share the goal of creating memorable moments through hands-on education. Sugar Apple Baking Company will be holding a pop-up shop during the Community Spotlight. Come explore their delicious pastries and treats in Curiosity Corner, the Amazeum’s museum store!

The Curiosity Corner also has great resources for introducing your child to speaking Spanish. The Indestructibles books are the trusted series for easing little ones into story time. Indestructibles are built for the way babies “read” by being rip proof—made of ultra-durable tight-woven material, waterproof—can be chewed on, drooled on, and washed, Emergent Literacy Tool—bright pictures and few or no words encourage dialogic reading, portable—lightweight books can go anywhere, perfect for the diaper bag and for travel and safe for babies—meets ASTM safety standards. Click here to view the Indestructibles at Curiosity Corner.

Other family-friendly events are planned throughout the upcoming month! The University of Arkansas Multicultural Center is hosting a celebration on the first day of Hispanic Heritage Month for students and the Northwest Arkansas community. The Latine Heritage Month Kickoff will be held at the Union Mall on the University of Arkansas campus on Thursday, September 15th from 6 to 8 p.m. The celebration will have traditional Latin American dance performed by students, a live DJ, games, tacos and pupusas! Click here to learn more.

Casa Castillo, a Spanish-immersion preschool and childcare center will be hosting a Hispanic Heritage Festival! Come and “fill your passport” by traveling to different stations set up for each Spanish speaking country. Complete activities, learn fun facts and enjoy tasting traditional food. Live music from the Mariachi Band Joya Azteca will be happening along with performances from the Latin Art Association, Baile Folklorico. It is $5 per person or max $20 per family, however current Casa Castillo students will have free admission with the price of a ticket for an adult. Click here to learn more.

The Fayetteville Chamber of Commerce is hosting the Northwest Arkansas Hispanic Heritage Festival on Sunday, September 25th from 1 to 5 p.m. in the Fayetteville Historic Square. This free, family-friendly event offers a variety of educational and entertainment activities including arts and crafts, a soccer tournament, a children's play area, a parade of nations, dance contests, vendors, live entertainment and door prizes. Click here for more information.

Another way we can celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month is by learning about the contributions, achievements and histories of Hispanic and Latinx Americans. The Smithsonian National Museum of American History has a great list of resources you and your child can explore online for free. Click here to browse exhibitions, programs, museum collections, and resources that reflect the richness and diversity of Latinx history in the United States.