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Latine Heritage Month
Why Latine Heritage Month and not Hispanic Heritage Month?
The celebration formerly known as Hispanic Heritage Month is transitioning to Latine Heritage Month (LHM), reflecting a more inclusive approach to honoring the diverse communities it represents. This shift in terminology recognizes the rich tapestry of identities within Latin American communities while maintaining the same meaningful celebration from September 15th to October 15th.
What is Latine Heritage Month (LHM)?
Latine Heritage Month (LHM) formerly known as Hispanic Heritage Month (HHM) is a month-long celebration of Latine history and culture. While we celebrate Latine communities beyond this month, from September 15th to October 15th we highlight the many contributions made by the Latine community to the history and culture of the United States, including important advocacy work, vibrant art, traditional foods, and much more. .
LHM provides an additional opportunity to explore the incredible impact that the Latine community have had on the United State for generations. Today, the Latine population in the United State is over 60 million according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This makes up 18.9% of the total population and is the largest ethnic group. The Latine community continues to help fuel the economy and enrich the nation as entrepreneurs, athletes, artist, entertainers, educators, scientists, public servants, and much more.
When is LHM?
LHM is celebrated each year from September 15th to October 15th. It began as a week long celebration in 1968 and was expanded to a month in 1988. The month-long celebration provides more time to properly recognize the significant contributions the Latine Community has made to the U.S. LHM does not cover one single month but instead begins in the middle of September and ends in the middle of October. The timeframe of this month is significant because many Latine countries celebrate their independence within these dates. By aligning with these independence dates, LHM honors the resilience and determination of the Latine community. Key independence Days celebrated withig LHM include:
- September 15 - Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua
- September 16 – Mexico
- September 18 – Chile
- September 21 – Belize
Learn more about the unique Latine Independence Days traditions and celebrations.
Why is it important to celebrate LHM?
Latine people have always held significant roles throughout our country’s history. LHM is important because it provides an opportunity to celebrate the integral part the Latine community has had in growing and strengthening our democracy.
Representation matters. Latine people continue to shape the nation as business owners, activist, artists, educators, public servants and much more. From serving in the U.S. military to being champions in the fight for civil rights, Latine people remain string leaders and changemakers.
It’s crucial to make sure that the contributions of the Latine community are showcased, and that they have a Voice. According to the 2020 data from the U.S. Bureau, one in every four children in the U.S. is Latine. A recent study found that Latine history is largely left out in high school textbooks that are used across the U.S., despite the increasing percentage of Latine students. This also comes at a time when the economic output of Latine would rank fifth in the world if the community were an independent country. As the country continues to increase in diversity, it is important that we all learn about the Latine experiences to recognize and value the many contributions the Latine community have made.
Explore more online resources to learn more about the Latine experiences and Latine Heritage Month: https://latino.si.edu/learn/teaching-and-learning-resources/hispanic-heritage-month-resources
2026 Sacramento State LHM Events
Check out our campus events!
The Serna Center is excited to invite the campus community to our Open House! Come explore our space, meet our dedicated team, and learn more about the events and services we offer.
Hosted by El Centro Serna
2:30pm - 4:00pm
Riverfront Center 1031
This week the Pop-Up shop will be featuring Latine-owned student businesses in celebration of Mexican Independence Day. Stop by and support our student vendors!
Pop-Up Shop, University Union
Monday - Thursday: 10:00am - 4:00pm
Friday: 10:00am - 2:00pm
The Undocumented Student Resource Center (USRC) is offering Free Immigration Legal Consultations for general inquiries, DACA renewals, citizenship petitions, family-based petitions, removal defense, Special Immigrant Juvenile State and other relief on Tuesday, September 15 from 9 am – 5pm as a service to students, faculty, staff, alumni and immediate family members. For mor information and to make an appointment, please visit Free Immigration Legal Services.
Undocumented Student Resource Center
9:00am - 5:00pm
Lassen Hall 3003
Experience the vibrant sounds of Regional Mexican music with Güero Pimentel, a rising singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist known for blending traditional sierreño and corrido styles with a modern edge. He will be performing live at UNIQUE's Noon Live series on Wed., Sept. 16 at 12 p.m. in the University Union Serna Plaza. Come shop student vendors at the Stinger Expo vendor fair from 11 am- 3 pm.
El Centro Serna invites students, faculty, staff and the campus community to La Bienvenida, an annual signature event to kick off the start of a new academic year. The event consists of live music, cultural activities, food, and a resource fair for students to learn more, connect and build community. The event will take place Wednesday, September 16 from 2:30 – 6:30 pm in the Acorn Amphitheatre (Main Quad Area between Lassen Hall and Riverfront Center).
UNIQUE Programs invites you to Dance the night away with Banda Kalimba and DJ LG at Banda Night in the University Union Ballroom! Known for their energetic blend of traditional banda, rancheras, cumbias, corridos, and Latin dance hits, Banda Kalimba delivers an unforgettable live show. Happening Thursday, September 17th in the University Union Ballroom at 7:30 pm. For more details about tickets and admission, please visit Banda Kalimba at Sac State.
El Centro Serna invites you to celebrate Latine pride, culture, and community! Join us before the Hornets take the field for an afternoon featuring a car show, music, food, and community resources. Connect with the Sac State community, celebrate Latine excellence, and show your Hornet pride! Happening on Saturday, September 19 from 2pm – 6pm at the Hornet Stadium.
El Centro Serna is hosting their first Café y Conversación of the semester on Wednesday, September 23rd from 3:00 pm – 4:30 pm in El Centro Serna Lounge. Café y Conversación (Coffee & Conversation) is a monthly social group that focuses on building community and a sense of familia amongst those interested in supporting Latine & first-generation students at Sacramento State.
This session will be a conversation facilitated by Dra. Amalia Perez Martin & Professor Ahmed Correa Alvarez bringing light to the current circumstances in Cuba.
Light food and refreshments are provided at every session! Visit the center’s Instagram for session details.
The Undocumented Student Resource Center (USRC) in partnership with CHIRLA, will host an Immigration Policy Update Workshop in Spanish on Monday, September 28th from 6pm – 7pm on Zoom. For more details on registration, please visit the Undocumented Student Resource Center.
The Women’s Resource Center in collaboration with El Centro Serna is hosting Wellness Wednesday: Raices & Resilience to celebrate Latine Heritage Month by inviting students to drop by El Centro Serna on Wednesday, September 30, anytime between 10am – 3pm for a day of pot painting, succulent planting, and community building centered on resilience, cultural roots, and well-being.
Student Health, Counseling & Wellness Services (SHCWS) in collaboration with the Undocumented Student Resource Center (USRC) and El Centro Serna is offering a Cooking Demo by Guest Chef, Luz Maria Toro on Thursday, October 1 from 12 pm – 1pm at The Cove Kitchen in The WELL. Learn how to cook Pollo en Salsa Verde like a pro (on a student budget)!
Please RSVP by September 21st, through the registration form. *Limited to the first 26 participants
The Department of World Languages and Literatures at Sacramento State is proud to host students and community members in the Sacramento area annually to participate in Voces de Sacramento. Voces de Sacramento is a creative writing contest in the Spanish language open and available to all who are interested to apply and/or participate, regardless of race, sex, age, ethnicity or national origin. Join us as we recognize this year’s contest awardees on Wednesday, October 7th from 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm in the Pacific Suite in the University Union. For more information, please visit Voces de Sacramento.
The Undocumented Student Resource Center (USRC) is offering Free Immigration Legal Consultations for general inquiries, DACA renewals, citizenship petitions, family-based petitions, removal defense, Special Immigrant Juvenile State and other relief on Friday, October 9 from 9 am – 5pm as a service to students, faculty, staff, alumni and immediate family members. For mor information and to make an appointment, please visit Free Immigration Legal Services.
The Undocumented Student Resource Center (USRC) in partnership with CHIRLA, will host a Know Your Rights Workshop in Spanish on Monday, October 12th from 6pm – 7pm on Zoom.
For more details on registration, please visit the Undocumented Student Resource Center.
The Cultural Academic Resource Centers (CARC), the Undocumented Student Resource Center (USRC) and El Centro Serna invite you to the second Latine Pop-Up of the semester! Join us as we celebrate the end of Latine Heritage Month with snacks, live music, lawn games and more! Happening on Wednesday, October 14 from 2:30pm – 4:30pm in the Acorn Amphitheatre (Main Quad Area between Lassen Hall and Riverfront Center).
2026 Sacramento Community LHM Events
Visit the California Museum for their exhibit - Help Wanted/Leave Now: "Operation Wetback" & The Revolving Door of Mass Deportation. This first-of-its-kind exhibition explores how generations of Mexican farmworkers, miners, and others were recruited to sustain U.S. industry, only to face mass expulsion during times of economic anxiety and political scapegoating.
California Museum
1020 O Street, Sacramento, CA 95814
Hours
Closed Mondays
Tuesday - Saturday: 10:00am - 5:00pm
Sunday: 12:00pm - 5:00pm
Ticket Prices
Adults (18+): $10
Students & Seniors (65+) w/ ID: $8
Military: $8
Youth (6-17): $8
Children (5 & under): Free
NARM & Time Travelers Cardholder: Free
California Museum Members: Free
Based in Sacramento, Grupo Cumbiazo is dedicated to bringing the timeless sound of live cumbia to the region. Featuring powerful lead vocals, rich harmony vocals, and favorites from Los Ángeles Azules, La Sonora Dinamita, Grupo Frontera, Selena, and more, the band creates an energetic, family-friendly atmosphere where everyone can dance, sing along, and enjoy an unforgettable night of live music.
Saturday, September 5th
1:00pm - 4:00pm
Swabbies on the River
5871 Garden Highway, Sacramento, CA 95837
Annual Fair - Fiesta Hispana
Sunday, September 13th
8:00am - 7:00pm
National Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe
711 T Street, Sacramento, CA 95811
✨ ¡Prepárate para una noche inolvidable llena de nostalgia, emoción y la música que marcó generaciones! ✨
Disfruta de un espectacular concierto en vivo con Mariachi Bonitas de Dinora, interpretando durante 2 horas los más grandes éxitos del inolvidable Divo de Juárez.
Sunday, September 13th
7:00pm - 9:00pm
1328 Del Paso Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95815
Since the late 20th century, the Hidalgo “Grito de Dolores” (Cry of Dolores) has become emblematic of Mexican independence. This event has since assumed an almost mythic status. Every year, millions of Mexicans, Mexican Americans and fellow revelers from around the world gather late the night before Mexican Independence Day (September 16th) to join a massive synchronized call and response.
Tuesday, September 15
5:00pm - 9:00pm
State Capitol - West Steps
1315 10th Street, Sacramento, CA 95814
Día de los Muertos: A Celebration of Life & Remembrance
Celebrate the vibrant culture and remembrance of a ceremony steeped in Mexican tradition! Día de los Muertos: A Celebration of Life & Remembrance, which translates to “Day of the Dead: A Celebration of Life & Remembrance”, will bring the rich customs of honoring the departed to life through stunning ofrendas (altars), art, live performances, and hands-on experiences.
This two-part program will kick off on Tuesday, September 15th with a curated ofrenda in honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month, followed by a family-friendly, free event on October 24th in celebration of DÍa de los Muertos. Guests of all ages will have the opportunity to engage in cultural traditions and learn about the significance of these heritage rituals. Interactive activities will provide deeper insights into the customs behind DÍa de Los Muertos, ensuring cultural authenticity and a lasting appreciation for this important celebration.
Arden Fair Mall
1689 Arden Way, #1167, Sacramento, CA 95815
Hours of Operation:
Monday - Saturday: 10:00am - 8:00pm
Sunday: 11:00am - 7:00pm
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with networking, golf, appetizers and festive fun at Buenas Tardes at Haggin Oaks!
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with the Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce at a special edition of Buenas Tardes: Where Conversations Become Connections at Haggin Oaks Golf Complex!
Enjoy a fun and festive evening of networking with Chamber members, business professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders while experiencing all that Haggin Oaks has to offer. Guests will have access to reserved driving-range bays, fun games and opportunities to connect and celebrate our Hispanic culture, heritage, and contributions.
Your ticket includes appetizers and one drink ticket. Additional beverages will be available for purchase.
Hosted by the Sacramento Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
Thursday, September 24
5:30pm - 7:30pm
Haggin Oaks Golf Complex
3645 Fulton Ave., Sacramento, CA 95821
Hispanic Heritage Night & A's Soccer Jersey Giveaway
Early arriving fans, while supplies last.Presented by SAFE Credit UnionCalling all fans! Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Night at the ballpark as the Green & Gold take on the Houston Astros on Thursday, September 24. Early arriving fans will receive an exclusive A's soccer jersey, bringing vibrant culture, passion, and an epic celebration to the ballpark.
Thursday, September 24
6:40pm
Sutter Health Park
400 Ballpark Drive, West Sacramento, CA 95691
Join ALPFA Greater Sacramento’s 3rd Annual Soccer Tournament! Play, connect & celebrate community. September 26, 2026!
Go here for more information about the event!
Saturday, September 26
6:00pm - 10:00pm
Street Soccer USA
2408 8th Street, Sacramento, CA 95818
Julieta Venegas - Norteña Tour 2026
Saturday, September 26
Doors: 7:00pm
Show: 8:00pm
Channel 24 Sacramento
1800 24th Street, Sacramento, CA 95816
Iconic Mexican rock band MANÁ, celebrated worldwide for their boundary-breaking music and long-standing environmental advocacy, has announced a Sacramento date on their massively successful Vivir Sin Aire Tour.
Friday, October 9
Doors: 7:30pm
Show: 8:30pm
Golden 1 Center
500 David J Stern Walk, Sacramento, CA 95814
The 4th Annual Sacramento Latino Book & Family Festival is coming back on Saturday, October 10, 2026.
Join more than 100 exhibitors and help us inspire a love of reading. We can't wait to connect families from across the Sacramento region with award-winning authors from across the country.
Saturday, October 10
10:30am - 3:30pm
Valley High School
6300 Ehrhardt Ave., Sacramento, CA 95823
Celebrate the grand opening of Sendero de las Almas Luminosas (Path of the Luminous Souls) at the California Museum’s annual Día de los Muertos Fiesta on Saturday, Oct. 10!
Saturday, October 10
6:00pm - 10:00pm
California Museum
1020 O Street, Sacramento, CA 95814
Sacramento Republic - Noche Latina
Celebrate Latin culture with music, passion, and special in-stadium elements during an unforgettable soccer match.
Saturday, October 10
7:00pm
Heart Health Park
1600 Exposition Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95815
A vibrant Día de los Muertos celebration with art, ofrendas, live music, fashion, dinner, ceremony, and community honoring our loved ones.
ARTners presents an immersive Día de los Muertos Experience, honoring loved ones through art, culture, and community. Guests will enjoy beautiful ofrendas, a traditional Mexica blessing by Kalpulli Xihuacoatl, live music by Son Bugambilia, a vibrant fashion show by local fashion designers Rory Castillo and Khameleon Styles, artisan vendors, and a silent art auction. The evening features a catered Mexican dinner by Vallejo's Restaurant, dessert bar by Nosabo Concheria, and dancing by DJ Latin Motion, creating a warm, elegant celebration. This event is a fundraiser that supports ARTners’ mission to continue to provide free, inclusive arts and cultural programming for the Sacramento region.
Friday, October 23
5:00pm - 11:00pm
The Center at District56
8230 Civic Center Drive, Suite 100, Elk Grove, CA 95757
Zócalo Midtown hosts Cena de las Ánimas, a special dinner honoring the Day of the Dead. The evening features traditional food and culture. Reservations are required for the October 30th event.
Friday, October 30
6:00pm
Zócalo Midtown
1801 Capitol Ave., Sacramento, CA 95811