Hispanic Heritage Month, spanning from September 15 to October 15, is a tribute to the rich cultural contributions, history, and achievements of Hispanic and Latino communities across the United States. In Chicago’s Western suburbs, Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated with lively events that showcase Latino traditions and culture.
From festivals and parades to community gatherings and educational programs, these celebrations offer opportunities to immerse yourself in traditional cuisine, music, dance, and art. Local businesses, including Latino-owned shops and restaurants, provide authentic cultural experiences and delicious flavors that enrich the celebration. Whether attending parades, participating in cultural activities, or exploring local eateries, there’s no shortage of ways to honor Hispanic Heritage Month in Oak Park and the Western suburbs.
What is Hispanic Heritage Month?
Hispanic Heritage Month is a month-long celebration of Hispanic and Latino communities in the United States. The celebration begins in mid-September to commemorate the independence days of several Latin American countries, including Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Costa Rica, and Chile. During this period, communities across the U.S. come together to honor the rich heritage and accomplishments of Hispanics in areas such as the arts, politics, business, and education.
In the Greater Chicagoland area, Hispanic Heritage Month holds special significance due to the region's long history of Hispanic migration and the substantial Latino population that resides here today. Chicago is home to one of the largest Mexican communities in the U.S. and a growing number of residents from Puerto Rico and Central and South America. Over the decades, these communities have shaped Chicago's culture, economy, and social fabric, with many neighborhoods like Pilsen, Little Village, and Humboldt Park becoming cultural hubs for Latino traditions and activism.
In the western suburbs—such as Oak Park, Maywood, Westchester, and Brookfield—Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the growing Latino population that continues to influence these communities. The suburbs have witnessed a steady rise in Latino-owned businesses, cultural organizations, and family-oriented events, creating vibrant neighborhoods enriched by Latino culture. Local festivals, parades, and community events are held to recognize the contributions of Latino residents and to showcase their unique cultural heritage. Events such as Brookfield Zoo’s Hispanic Heritage Fest, Oak Park's ¡Viva! Festival, and various celebrations in Maywood and Westchester highlight traditional music, food, and art, making the western suburbs a lively area to experience Hispanic culture.
Hispanic Heritage Month in the Western suburbs is more than just a celebration—it’s a reflection of the ongoing influence and integration of Latino culture into the broader community, offering residents and visitors alike a chance to appreciate the rich contributions of Hispanic Americans.
Celebrations Happening in the Western Suburbs
Let’s take a look!
Hispanic Heritage Celebration | North Riverside (Sept. 14)
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage at North Riverside Park Mall on Saturday, September 14th, from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm in the Center Court/Food Court! This family-friendly event will feature live Mariachi music and vibrant folk dancing, offering a taste of Mexico’s rich cultural traditions. Gather with the community to enjoy the lively performances and immerse yourself in the sounds and colors of Hispanic culture.
Don’t miss the free Lotería tournament, a fun, bingo-like game rooted in Mexican heritage where players mark images on a card instead of numbers. Get ready for a fun-filled afternoon of music, dance, and games to celebrate Hispanic culture!
Click here to learn more.
Hispanic Heritage Fest | Brookfield (Sept. 21)
Enjoy Hispanic culture at Brookfield Zoo’s Hispanic Heritage Fest on Saturday, September 21, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm! This exciting event features live music, cultural performances, and delicious cuisine—all included with zoo admission. Enjoy performances from Ballet Folklórico de Chicago, Trabuco Salsa Band, and more, while DJ Fire keeps the music going all day. Engage with local community groups and meet leaders like U.S. Congressman Jesús "Chuy" García and Cook County Commissioner Alma Anaya at the East Mall from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm.
Bring the family to the Hamill Family Nature Plaza for bilingual story times, music, and a fun Lotería game. Animal lovers can enjoy special Zoo Chats with Spanish-language support, including encounters with Llamas, Andean Condors, and more. Don’t miss this lively celebration of Hispanic culture at Brookfield Zoo!
Click here to learn more.
Hispanic Heritage Celebration at Washington Dual Language Academy | Maywood (Sept. 24)
Join us on September 24 from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm at Washington Dual Language Academy for another Hispanic Heritage Celebration in Maywood! This vibrant event is a heartfelt tribute to the rich cultural traditions of Hispanic and Latino communities. Experience a dynamic showcase of music, dance, and art that celebrates these communities. Come and enjoy an afternoon filled with cultural pride and joyous festivities at this special gathering!
Click here to learn more.
Voices of Impact Lunch & Learn | Oak Park (Sept. 24)
The Voices of Impact: Nurturing Connections with Hispanic Audiences Lunch & Learn will feature an incredible panel in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. Taking place from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., come connect with different industry experts and find strategies to support the Hispanic community through marketing.
It will be a great opportunity to learn and make connections!
Click here to learn more.
Hispanic Heritage Celebration | Westchester (Sept. 25)
Join the vibrant Hispanic Heritage Celebration on Wednesday, September 25th at 6:00 pm at the Village Hall Board Room, 10300 W Roosevelt Rd! This exciting event brings together community members to honor the rich and growing Hispanic culture in Westchester. Hear inspiring words from local elected officials and community leaders as they share cultural insights and stories of Hispanic heritage’s impact on our village and beyond.
Enjoy a delicious spread of traditional Hispanic cuisine that will give you a taste of the diverse flavors that shape our community. This family-friendly gathering is a fantastic opportunity to come together, celebrate, and learn more about the cultures that continue to enrich Westchester. Everyone is welcome—don’t miss out!
Click here to learn more.
Festival de la Monarca | North Riverside (Sept. 28)
The Village of North Riverside, in partnership with MWRD, is excited to host this year’s Monarch Festival—Festival de la Monarca on September 28 at Commons Park from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. This event celebrates the monarch butterfly's epic 2,000-mile migration from Canada to Mexico while raising awareness about monarch conservation. Held during Hispanic Heritage Month, the festival highlights the monarch's journey as a powerful symbol of survival and transformation, much like the immigrant experience. Attendees can enjoy live music, delicious food, fun activities, and access to community resources, making it a special day for all.
Click here to learn more.
Viva! Music Festival | Oak Park (Sept. 28)
Get ready for a spirited celebration at Oak Park's ¡Viva! Festival, returning on September 28! From noon to 3:00 pm, Village Hall’s south lawn will come alive with the spirit of Hispanic Heritage Month. This family-friendly festival promises delicious food, lively entertainment, and engaging activities for kids. Don't miss this chance to immerse yourself in the rich culture and joyful atmosphere of ¡Viva! Festival. Mark your calendars for a day full of fun and festivity!
Click here to learn more.
Hispanic Heritage Month Mercado | Oak Park (Oct. 2nd)
Join us for the first-ever Hispanic Heritage Month Mercado in Oak Park on Wednesday, October 2nd, from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm at The Coffee Shop Oak Park (163 S. Oak Park Avenue). This community event will feature Hispanic-owned vendors selling apparel, services, and delicious treats, providing a fantastic opportunity to support local businesses. The Coffee Shop will serve customers during its usual business hours until 4:00 pm, after which the space will remain open for the Mercado. Enjoy live music from 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm, courtesy of Selleria Veneta, and celebrate Hispanic culture in a lively and welcoming atmosphere. Don’t miss it!
Click here to learn more.
Día De Los Muertos Altar | Willow Springs (Oct. 19)
Celebrate the conclusion of Hispanic Heritage Month at the Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center by partaking in their Día de los Muertos Altar event on Saturday, October 19th, from 1:00 pm to 3:30 pm. This cherished nature center, known for educating and delighting families with its live animals, exhibits, and scenic trails, invites the community to honor the Mexican holiday, Día de los Muertos, which celebrates the lives and memories of ancestors. While traditional celebrations occur on November 1st and 2nd, this special event will allow participants to create traditional artwork to be displayed on the center’s altar, marking a meaningful close to Hispanic Heritage Month. Join in this fusion of nature and culture, as families gather to learn about and contribute to the rich traditions of Día de los Muertos!
Click here to learn more.
Let’s Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, Together
Hispanic Heritage Month in the western suburbs offers a unique opportunity to experience and celebrate the vibrant cultures that have enriched these communities. From lively festivals and cultural performances to meaningful community gatherings, there are countless ways to honor the contributions of Hispanic and Latino individuals.
Whether you're exploring local markets, enjoying traditional cuisine, or participating in family-friendly events, these celebrations provide a joyful and educational experience for all ages. As you take part in the festivities, remember to support Latino-owned businesses and engage with the diverse communities that make the western suburbs a rich and culturally dynamic place. Embrace the spirit of Hispanic Heritage Month and make lasting memories at these exciting events!