Celebrate roots, pride, and flavor — September 15 to October 15

Hear a mariachi song and feel your feet move? Smell warm tortillas and smile? That spark is culture calling. Don’t wait. This is your moment to cheer, learn, and share. Let’s open the door to stories, songs, and tasty food that bring people together. ¡Viva!

Answer in short: “Mexican Heritage Month” is how many people in the U.S. refer to the part of National Hispanic Heritage Month, from September 15 to October 15, that celebrates Mexican history, culture, and people, and their contributions to the United States.

Why does it start in the middle of September?

Big days happen then. Mexico’s Independence Day is September 16. The night before, people shout “El Grito,” a joyful cheer that remembers the start of the fight for freedom in 1810. So the month begins on September 15 to include that celebration.

Key dates to circle

• Sept 15: El Grito (the Independence shout)
• Sept 16: Mexico’s Independence Day
• Oct (second Monday): Indigenous Peoples’ Day in the U.S. (often falls inside the month)
• Oct 15: Last day of the month-long observance

Note: Día de Muertos is Nov 1–2, which is after this month.

What does it celebrate?

• People: Mexican and Mexican American families and leaders
• Culture: music, dance, art, crafts, and stories
• Language: Spanish and Indigenous words we hear every day
• Food: maize, chiles, beans, chocolate, and more
• Contributions: hard work, new ideas, and community care across the U.S.

How to celebrate (simple and kind)

• Play a mariachi or cumbia playlist and dance
• Cook something easy: quesadillas or horchata
• Learn one story about El Grito and share it
• Support a Mexican-owned shop or food truck
• Make paper flags (papel picado) and decorate
• Read a picture book by a Mexican author with a friend
• Learn one word: orgullo (pride). Use it today.

Myths vs. facts

Fast history bites (kid-friendly)

• 1810: The Grito de Dolores starts the path to freedom.
• Music: Mariachi grew in western Mexico and brings joy to big moments.
• Art: Talavera tiles from Puebla mix local and Spanish craft.
• Food: Maize and chiles are roots of many favorite dishes.

Words to know (palabras)

• Orgullo: pride
• Familia: family
• Barrio: neighborhood
• Raíces: roots
• Amigos: friends

At school, at work, at home

• School: map places in Mexico; try a short folktale
• Work: invite a speaker or share staff stories
• Home: cook together; make a small wall of photos and memories

Quick FAQ

Is “Mexican Heritage Month” official?
It’s a common name people use during National Hispanic Heritage Month to focus on Mexican culture.

When is it?
September 15 to October 15 every year.

Who can join?
Everyone. Celebrate with respect and care.

Your turn: one small act today

Pick one step. Play a song. Learn a word. Try a recipe. Support a maker. Share a smile. Culture grows when we celebrate it together. ¡Vamos!

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