5 Ways to Kick Off Hispanic Heritage Month in Austin

We hope todos están listos for a month full of fiestas for National Hispanic Heritage Month porque Austin no juega when it comes to celebrar. From arte to música to low riders to pachangas, we have the best of what our city has to offer in celebrating nuestra cultura. Here are a few ways to kick off National Hispanic Heritage Month, which starts on Sept. 15 and runs through Oct. 15. The heritage month kick-off also coincides with various Mexican Independence Day or Dieciséis de Septiembre celebrations in the Texas capital.

Viva México

Head to the 17th annual Viva México celebration outside of the Oswaldo A.B. Cantu/Pan American Recreation Center on Sat., Sept. 14 from 5 to 9 p.m. This free outdoor fiesta celebrates Mexico’s independence and boasts lots to do with the familia including live performances from mariachis and folklórico dancers, a vendor market, family-friendly art activities, and a Grito delivery by the Consul General of Mexico Humberto Hernández Haddad.

La Fiesta De Independencía de México

Another fun-filled event para la familia celebrando Mexico’s 214th Independence Day is La Fiesta De Independencía de México at Republic Square in the heart of Austin. Enjoy the mariachis, ballet folklórico, an artisan mercado and another Grito by Consul General of Mexico Humberto Hernández Haddad on Sept. 15. 

Chingona Fest

You don’t want to miss Chingona Fest 2024 at the Moody Amphitheater at Waterloo Park featuring art, música, comida, nationwide Latine vendors y pues, Chingonas. Swing by on Sat., Sept. 14 from 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tickets cost $25-$30. If you plan on attending, stop by the Austin Vida booth y dinos hola! 

Mariachi Rock Revolution

Get ready for a night llena de música de mariachi at the Long Center on Sept. 15. This night will benefit Mariachi para Todos, an intergenerational mariachi group, and will feature Latin fusion supergroup Mariachi Rock Revolution and Austin’s own Mariachi Clasico at 7 p.m. 

Laboratorio

Storytelling, music and visual arts make up Carrie Rodriguez’ live immersive concert series, Laboratorio. On Sept. 15, check out featured performers Latin Grammy nominee Gina Chavez and NPR’s Alt.Latino host Felix Contreras at The Paramount Theatre at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $30.