The Office of Strategic Engagement and Impact celebrates America’s rich Hispanic history and culture with National Hispanic Heritage Month, Sept. 15 - Oct. 15. Hispanic Heritage Month, established on Sept. 15, 1968, celebrates the shared anniversary of independence of five Latin American countries – Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. The independence of Mexico, Chile, and Belize also occurred during this 30-day period.
The 2025 theme for Hispanic Heritage Month is “Collective Heritage: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future.”
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with these events at UMB and in the community:
Thursday, Sept. 18: Juntos en La Mesa: Spanish for Real-World Connection in Person
noon - 1 p.m. | SMC Campus Center, 3rd Floor Student Success Center Lounge | Register
Join fellow faculty, staff, and students for an informal Spanish conversation circle designed to support language growth in everyday professional settings. Whether you're interacting with Spanish-speaking clients, collaborating across departments, or simply expanding your communication skills, this space offers a supportive environment to learn by doing.
Thursday, Sept. 18: SOROCHE
6:30 – 7:30 p.m. | The Walters Art Museum | More Info
Get ready to dance in your seat for this evening of cumbias led by the D.C.-born and Baltimore-based band SOROCHE. In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Walters Art Museum welcomes you to enjoy a free performance covering the different flavors of cumbias from a variety of Latin American countries. This program is in conjunction with the Walters’ new permanent exhibition, Latin American Art / Arte Latinoamericano, with art from South, Central, and North America and the Caribbean.
Saturday - Sunday, Oct. 4 - 5: Fiesta Baltimore
11 a.m. - 7 p.m. | Patterson Park, Baltimore, MD | More Info
Held in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, this free, family-friendly, and community-oriented event is open to all and welcomes people of every background to experience Latino culture together. The festival features live music and dance performances, traditional and contemporary cuisine, cultural exhibits, artisan vendors, and activities for all ages.
Thursday, Oct. 9: Salsa Fiesta
4 - 6 p.m. | HSF II Atrium | Register
Join the School of Medicine for salsa lessons and a happy hour event. Learn salsa dance moves while enjoying delicious salsa tastings and cocktails in honor of Hispanic and Latino Heritage Month. All faculty, staff, students, and campus community members are welcome.