Indulge in everything our ever-growing Hispanic cultures have to offer with these exciting activities and events
It is no secret that Los Angeles holds one of the largest and most vibrant Latino populations outside Latin America. From September 15 – October 15, community members, event organizers, businesses and city officials will come together to commemorate the Hispanic cultures and traditions that have shaped L.A. for over a century. Here are a few of the events and places you can go to this month to celebrate our Hispanic history.
L.A. County Library Events
As is tradition, libraries across L.A. County will host multiple free events and programs to honor the Hispanic population of our cities throughout the month. From crafts and arts workshops to music and dance performances, the libraries of our county will be booming with activities for attendees to immerse themselves in all aspects of Latino culture. Take a look at a huge list of events here.
Latino Carnaval
Latino Carnaval is coming back to South Central on September 26 with a stacked lineup of music performers and over 200 vendors. This free event, hosted by L.A. Concerts, will run from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., bringing artists and business owners together to celebrate Latinidad in Los Angeles. After last year’s debut with over 50,000 attendees, the Carnaval is making its second appearance with the likes of reggaeton legend Ivy Queen and California native Snow Tha Product headlining the vibrant list of musical performers. Get your free tickets here.
Lucha Libre at the MOOLA
Long Beach is home to the only museum in the U.S. dedicated exclusively to Latino art. The Museum of Latin American Art did not miss the opportunity to highlight this rich culture through their art this month. Besides their collection of art exhibitions (which have free admission on Sundays), the museum will host three days dedicated to the art of lucha libre, September 25 through 27. A film screening, book launch and – of course – live luchadores going at it in the ring will fill the museum with action-packed thrills. Check out their website if you are craving the adrenaline rush of this tradition.
KA’TEEN Mexican Independence Cocktails
Of course, you can’t talk about Hispanic culture without mentioning its cuisine. In honor of Mexican Independence Day, this Yucatán-inspired restaurant in Hollywood will offer limited-time celebratory cocktails and dishes inspired by the holiday. Customers can enjoy their mezcal and tequila alongside live DJ sounds from September 16-20 in celebration of Mexican and Hispanic tradition. More information here.
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Descanso
For more Mexican culinary delight, look no further than the events hosted by a Michoacan-inspired restaurant and bar located in Mid-Wilshire. Throughout the month, Descanso will feature events such as live mariachi music (and free tacos!), an exclusive culinary experience featuring chef Emiliano Martinez, and an entire night dedicated to tequila and mezcal.
Hola Mexico Film Festival
For those who are looking to expand their horizons in film, look no further than this year’s 18th annual edition of Hola Mexico Film Festival. From September 25-October 3, this festival will celebrate Mexican cinema by featuring film and documentary screenings across six locations in L.A. County. The event will kick off with a screening, red-carpet and after-party dedicated to Loco México Mágico, the new film from Los Angeles-based actor and comedian Carlos Santos; the trailer is featured below.
The following nights will feature a wide range of full-length films, short films and documentaries from Mexican creatives.
“18 years of celebrating Mexican cinema in LA is a strong statement about the community and their love for Mexican films! At the same time, we’re happy to continue celebrating Mexico’s cinematic achievements worldwide. Los Angeles and Mexico are connected in many ways, but cinema holds the strongest bond,” said Samuel Douek, founder of Hola Mexico Film Festival.
Check out screening times and tickets here.
Melrose Trading Post Salsa Lessons & More
Local vendors and entrepreneurs gather every Sunday at the Fairfax High School parking lot for the Melrose Trading Post, but this upcoming Sunday, September 27, will be special. The community will host a day of Latino culture celebration, offering salsa lessons, live poetry and musical performances from the likes of Nancy Sanchez and Los Mocochotes. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., the vendors and shoppers of this long-standing weekly flea market will be surrounded by the colorful arts of different Hispanic cultures. If you are looking to explore local businesses and artists, check out the event details here.
