There’s a good reason Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 to October 15. The timing marks the independence anniversaries of several Latin American countries from the Spanish. These countries commemorate their hard-fought victories during these months, with festivities and lots of national pride. Here’s a quick rundown of the countries behind Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations.
September 15: Central America
Five countries in Central America — Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica — celebrate their independence on September 15. All five nations were part of the Captaincy General of Guatemala, also known as the Kingdom of Guatemala, under Spanish rule and declared their independence together in 1821.
September 16: Mexico
Mexico’s Independence Day is on September 16, commemorating the day in 1810 when Miguel Hidalgo issued the Grito de Dolores, a call for rebellion against Spanish rule. This marked the beginning of an 11-year war that eventually led to Mexico’s independence in 1821. Celebrations in Mexico are grand and widespread, including fireworks, parades, and reenactments of the famous “Grito.” Mexico’s Independence Day is one of the most famous independence celebrations in Latin America.
September 18: Chile
Chile celebrates its Fiestas Patrias on September 18, marking the country’s 1810 declaration of independence from Spain. The Fiestas Patrias are a week-long series of events filled with barbecues, rodeos, traditional music, and the national dance, the cueca. The celebrations are a blend of national pride and community spirit, with flags prominently displayed across the country.
October 9: Ecuador
Ecuador celebrates its independence on October 9, commemorating the day in 1820 when the city of Guayaquil declared its independence from Spain. This event marked the beginning of Ecuador’s eventual liberation from colonial rule, achieved two years later in 1822. Independence Day celebrations in Ecuador feature military parades, civic ceremonies, and cultural events honoring the country’s history.
