Union County Announces Full Lineup of Hispanic Heritage Month Events: Flag Raising, Cultural Celebrations, and More

The Union County Board of County Commissioners is proud to announce a dynamic lineup of events for Hispanic Heritage Month, taking place September 15 through October 15, 2025. The celebration will honor the diverse histories, cultures, and contributions of residents with roots in Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

"Hispanic Heritage Month is more than a commemoration-it's a celebration of the journeys and traditions that shaped us," said Commissioner Chairwoman Lourdes Leon. "As the first Hispanic woman to serve on this Board, and as the daughter of Cuban immigrants, I carry those stories with me every day. These events give us a chance not only to honor our culture but to share it proudly with our neighbors, inspiring the next generation to see themselves reflected in Union County's history and future."

The month kicks off with the annual Hispanic Heritage Month Flag Raising on Tuesday, September 16 at 5:00 p.m. on the steps of the Union County Courthouse in Elizabeth.

Throughout the month, residents can also enjoy:

• Art Exhibit: Roberto de la Selva
September 15th through October 17th - with gallery hours from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.
Commissioners Gallery, 6th Floor
Union County Administration Building
10 Elizabethtown Plaza, Elizabeth

• Sensory-Friendly Movie Night - Encanto
Friday, September 26 at 7:00 p.m.
Hamilton Stage, 360 Hamilton Street, Rahway
This special showing is adapted for a sensory-friendly audience, ensuring an inclusive experience for children and families. (Presented in partnership with the Union County Performing Arts Center).

• Family Fun Day & Hispanic Heritage Awards
Saturday, October 4 from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Warinanco Park, One Park Drive, Roselle
A free, family-friendly celebration featuring live musical entertainment, delicious food, cultural performances, inflatable bounce houses, a photo booth, face painting, bubble play, arts & crafts, coloring activities, and interactive games for all ages. We will also be presenting awards to this year's Hispanic Heritage Month recipients.

• Hispanic Leadership Panel
Tuesday, October 14 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Union College of Union County, Roy Smith Theater
1033 Springfield Avenue, Cranford
Panel discussion to begin at 12:30 p.m.

"As someone who is half Salvadoran, I've seen how culture and family traditions can shape identity and create strength," said Commissioner Sergio Granados. "Hispanic Heritage Month is about more than looking back-it's about creating spaces where young people see that their heritage is valued and their voices matter. These events remind us that our diversity is one of Union County's greatest strengths."

Hispanic Heritage Month runs annually from September 15th through October 15th. For the full calendar of events, visit ucnj.org/hhm.

The Union County Office of Cultural and Heritage Affairs, part of the Department of Parks and Recreation, coordinates exhibits at the Commissioners Gallery. For more information about arts and history programs in Union County, contact the Office at 633 Pearl Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07202; call (908) 558-2550; or email [email protected]. NJ Relay users dial 711.
For questions about Hispanic Heritage Month activities, contact Judith Guest, Community Engagement & Diversity Coordinator, at (908) 527-4388 or [email protected].

For details on Union County parks and activities, download the Explore Union County app in your app store or at ucnj.org/explore, visit ucnj.org/parks-recreation, or see the events calendar at ucnj.org/calendar.