Union County Announces Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration and Cultural Festival

The Union County Board of County Commissioners invites residents to continue celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month at the County's Hispanic Heritage Cultural Festival on Saturday, October 3, from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at UCPAC's Hamilton Stage in Rahway.

Observed in Union County from September 15 through October 14, Hispanic Heritage Month recognizes the history, cultures, traditions and lasting contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities.

"Hispanic Heritage Month gives us an opportunity to recognize the generations of Hispanic and Latino residents who have helped shape Union County and continue to contribute to the strength and character of our communities," said Union County Commissioner Chairman Joseph C. Bodek. "Our Cultural Festival brings residents together to enjoy the music, art, traditions and many cultures that make Union County such a vibrant place to live. I encourage everyone to join us for this special celebration."

Held under this year's theme, "Unidos, somos más • Together, we are more," the free, family-friendly festival will feature live entertainment, cultural performances, community resource tables and activities for children and families, including face painting, coloring, bracelet making, maraca decorating, games and a photo booth.

Community organizations and agencies scheduled to participate include the Latino Action Network, PROCEED, Union County Social Services, PRAE, the Mental Health Association in New Jersey, the Union County Board of Elections, We Are One New Jersey and the Union County American Job Center.

"Hispanic Heritage Month is deeply personal to me. As a Cuban-American, I carry my family's heritage, traditions and story with me in everything I do," said Union County Commissioner Lourdes M. Leon. "Since becoming a Commissioner, I have been proud to be part of this celebration and to see it continue to grow into something that brings so many families and communities together. The Cultural Festival is a chance for us to honor where we come from, share our traditions with one another and celebrate the incredible diversity of our Hispanic and Latino communities here in Union County."

During the Cultural Festival, Union County will recognize individuals and organizations for their leadership, advocacy, service and contributions to arts and culture. The 2026 honorees are:

Angel Estrada Community Leadership Award: Gloria Montealegre

Latino Advocacy and Empowerment Award: Latino Action Network

Humanitarian Leadership Award:

David Orozco

Artistic Excellence and Cultural Impact Award:

Ricardo Roig

Excellence in Educational Leadership Award: Elcy Castillo-Ospina

Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, the Union County Courthouse will be illuminated in red, yellow, blue, green and orange in recognition of the diverse cultures, traditions and nations represented throughout Union County's Hispanic and Latino communities.

UCPAC's Hamilton Stage is located at 360 Hamilton Street in Rahway. For more information about Union County's Hispanic Heritage Month programs and events, visit www.ucnj.org/hhm.