In 1968, Hispanic Heritage Week was first observed under the directive of President Lyndon B. Johnson. Twenty years later, in 1988 under President Ronald Reagan, the week was expanded to a full month of honoring the cultures, contributions, and collective actions of people of Latine descent. Celebrated between September 15 and October 15 each year, the first day of this heritage month honors the independence of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua from colonial Spanish rule on September 15, 1821. 

Today, nearly one-third of Chicago’s total population is of Latine descent, and numerous Latine neighborhoods such as Pilsen, Little Village, and Humboldt Park have grown and developed over the years, starting in the early 20th century to today! 

Join us as we celebrate Latine Heritage Month with fun and engaging opportunities to learn more about the many cultures and peoples of Latin America. Enjoy hands-on arts activities, explore the Museum galleries, and learn from CHM curatorial staff in a public talk about Latine history studies and our Aquí en Chicago project. 

Included with general admission 

Header image: Chicago History Museum, ICHi-059742; Gregg Mann, photographer