South Florida prepares to celebrate Hispanic Heritage month (includes video story)

South Florida’s melting pot of Hispanic culture showcases the rich traditions and inspiring stories that will be shared during National Hispanic Heritage Month.

“I’m planning to celebrate the month by enjoying Cuban meals made by my abuela, and learn more about my culture and where my family comes from,” said Isabella Castillo, who is of Cuban and Guatemalan descent. 

From Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, Hispanic Heritage Month pays tribute to the significant influence and contributions made by Hispanics across the United States, including the over 2 million who reside in South Florida.

Central and South Americans will proudly celebrate the anniversaries of their countries’ independence at the start of Hispanic Heritage Month. El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Costa Rica and Nicaragua celebrate on Sept. 15, Mexico on Sept. 16 and Chile on Sept. 18.

Several free, general admission Hispanic heritage-themed events will take place in South Florida during this time, such as Hispanic Heritage Month at The Wharf Miami and Viva Fort Lauderdale: Celebrating Hispanic Art & Culture.

Samantha Gutierrez

Samantha Gutierrez is a Latina freshman majoring in Digital Communication and Media. She is bilingual and enjoys covering stories about the environment and local events. She is passionate about broadcasting and aspires to pursue a career in anchoring.

Esteban Rodriguez

Esteban Rodriguez is a freshman majoring in TV/Broadcast media. He hopes to work in late-night entertainment, Filmmaking, sports journalism, and/or broadcast television. 

 

Alexandra Howard

Alexandra Howard is a junior pursuing a bachelor’s in Digital Journalism and Political Science. She aspires to become a political and legal affairs journalist, and enjoys writing stories about all branches of politics, social justice issues and the law.