How to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Dallas
Art exhibits, Salsa classes and more round out this year's cultural festivities.
Updated August 2024
Each year Dallas joins the rest of the nation to celebrate the history, culture, and achievements of Hispanic Americans. Former president, and fellow Texan, Lyndon B. Johnson first declared a National Hispanic Heritage Week back in 1968 before former president, and fellow Texan, George H. W. Bush extended the week to a month in 1989. Since then we have been celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month every Sept. 15 through Oct. 15. Here are some ways you can help celebrate Dallas' vibrant Hispanic culture.
1. Explore Mexican Art
Experience the fascinating exhibition "Frida: Beyond the Myth," a deeper dive into the iconic pieces of this Mexican artist. Including more than 60 works, this special event shows a series of striking paintings, prints, and drawings, unveiling key events that influenced her life and talents. This exhibition is currently on display and will run until November 17, 2024.
2. Take a Photo with El Divo de Juárez
Stop by the Mercado369 galleries in Oak Cliff to take a photo with the only life-sized statue of Juan Gabriel in the United States. The pop icon, also known as the Divo de Juárez, is widely considered one of the most prolific Mexican singers and songwriters of all time. He passed away in 2016, but his spirit lives on in a bronze statue outside Mercado369. After you snap a selfie with the famous singer, stroll through the mercado to check out the gallery's one-of-a-kind original art that reflects the rich culture and history of Latin America.
3. Visit the Latino Cultural Center
The multi-disciplinary arts center formed to elevate the preservation, development, and promotion of Latino and Hispanic arts and culture. Gallery exhibits, featuring the work of local and regional artists, rotate every few months. Visit Tuesday through Saturday 10 AM to 5 PM. While you're there, make sure to join one of their free guided tours to learn more about the building, designed by award winning Mexican architect Ricardo Legorreta, the rotunda mural created by Celia Alvarez Muñoz and the theater lobby mural, "La Danza de la Tierra”, by Judy Baca.
4. Dance the Cha-Cha
Latin America has a rich dance culture. From Argentine Tango to Cuban Salsa to Brazilian Samba, there is more than one way to shake your hips in the world of Latin dance. Studio 22 Dallas teaches all those plus Meringue, Cha Cha, Bolero and more. Join a group class or a private lesson and don't worry, a partner isn't required, so spice things up and start dancing today!
5. Unearth the Legacy of Islamic Spain
The new upcoming exhibit at the Meadows Museum, Unearthing the Legacy of Islamic Spain, features an array of sketches and paintings which revolve around the period of Muslim rule in Spain. From the beginnings of Muslim influence in the eighth century to the last Nasrid sultan in the late 1400s, explore this era of Spanish medieval history. The exhibition will open to the public on Sept. 15, 2024, and run through Jan. 5, 2025.
6. Watch the Alegre Ballet Folklorico at The Sound
Delve into the rich history and culture of Mexico through creative folklorico performances at The Sound at Cypress Waters. With colorful attire and upbeat tunes, don't miss this feet-tapping celebration of Hispanic traditions. This event will take place on September 21 from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM.
7. Groove to Lakeside Performances During Fusión Latina
Rogers-O'Brien Amphitheater
Revel in a lively atmosphere during the Fusión Latina event, and dance to energetic performances in a picturesque outdoor setting! Bring lawn chairs and blankets for a music-filled evening on September 21, from 8 PM to 10 PM.
8. Relish Authentic Bites at the Sazón Latin Food Fest
Indulge in a variety of mouthwatering eats and drinks from local food vendors during the Sazón Latin Food Fest. Showcasing classic flavors across the Caribbean, as well as Central and South America, this food festival is brimming with culinary masterpieces. Satisfy your appetite on Sep. 22, 2024, from 11 AM to 6 PM.
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