About Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month
 Each year, the United States observes National Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, by celebrating the histories, traditions, culture and contributions of U.S. residents who trace their roots to the Caribbean, Central and South America, Mexico and Spain.
The observance started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on September 15 and ending on October 15. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988, on the approval of Public Law 100-402.
The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September 18, respectively.
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To learn more about Hispanic/Latino Heritage Month visit PBS' Latino Americans Documentary Series.
Latinos in Iowa
 173,594
The estimated Latino
population of Iowa as of July 1,
2014, making people of Latino
origin the state’s largest race
or ethnic minority. Latinos
constitute 5.6 percent of the
state’s total population.
Click here for the complete Latinos in Iowa Report from the Iowa Data Center and the Office of Latino Affairs.
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Check out Hola Iowa's list of festivities across Iowa that engage, inspire and highlight contributions made by the Latino community to our state, while bridging cultural gaps, and connecting the diverse multi-cultural mosaic that is the Latino/Hispanic community.
Visit these festivals with your family and friends and enjoy the food, music, dances, and other activities.
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