Celebrating the background of a culture

Hispanic Heritage Month is a celebration of American citizens whose ancestry can be traced back to Spain, Mexico, Central, South America and the Caribbean. The celebration runs from September 15 to October 15.

Back in 1968, it was only a week-long celebration, but by 1988, it had expanded to a month. Unlike many traditional celebrations that start on the first of the month, Hispanic Heritage Month starts in the middle of the month. This is because September 15 marks the Independence Days of five Latin American countries: El Salvador, Costa Rica, Honduras, Guatemala, and Nicaragua. Chile, Mexico, and Belize follow shortly after, on the September 16, 18 and 21 respectively.

Many people in the United States put on events and festivals in the honor of Hispanic culture. It might include dancing the Cumbia and having Mariachis playing. While dancing, they have drums playing in the background with dancers wearing bright colors. The guys wear suits, dancing shoes and hats, while the girls wear a big dress called an escaramuza, and where their hair I either a bun or braids.

Some people celebrate with parades or decorate using flowers, posters and arts and crafts in bright colors.

As with most festivities, food is very rooted in the Hispanic culture, and real dairy milk is a key ingredient in many popular dishes that are served at these events. According to Hispanic Heritage Foods, common dishes that feature milk include Queso Fundido with Chorizo, Conchas, Arepas, and more. While most people associate Hispanic culture with tacos, enchiladas and tortillas, there are several popular dishes that reflect the culture, so many that a different meal could be enjoyed every day of Hispanic Heritage Month.