Orange County Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with Cultural Events

Orange County Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with Cultural Events

Orange County, FL - In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Hispanic Heritage Network of Orange County (HHNOC) and Orange County Government today announced a month-long celebration of cultural events that will showcase and celebrate Orange County's Hispanic community with the theme, Collective Heritage: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future. Duke Energy is the presenting sponsor of the 2025 Hispanic Heritage Month celebration.

"Orange County is proud to celebrate the contributions of our Hispanic and Latino communities," said Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings. "This year's theme reflects our deep appreciation for the legacy of those who came before us-trailblazers, leaders, artists, educators, and everyday residents who have shaped our region's identity and progress. Orange County is stronger, more resilient, and more inclusive because of the heritage and voices of our Hispanic residents."

The public celebration begins on September 16 at the regularly scheduled meeting of the Orange County Board of County Commissioners (BCC) at which the BCC will officially proclaim September 15 - October 15 as Hispanic Heritage Month. Additionally, Sofia "La Nena" Ortiz, a 15-year-old entrepreneur and founder of Naked Monkey Cakes will be recognized with the Hispanic Youth Athlete Award and an Athletic Scholarship for her achievements in women's boxing.

The Orlando International Airport will host a Hispanic Heritage Month Art Exhibit located on Level 3 of the Main Terminal B from September 10 - October 28, showcasing local Hispanic artists. A second exhibit highlighting artwork, traditional dresses, and cultural facemasks will take place at the Orange County Administration Center through October 16. Both exhibitions are free and open to the public.

The events for Hispanic Heritage Month will conclude with the Artist Meet & Mingle Reception on October 7^th, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Orange County Administration Center. The celebration will feature live music, dance performances, and traditional food from various Hispanic countries. The Masterpiece Maker Award will be presented to one Hispanic Artist for their outstanding artistry, originality, creativity, and technical excellence to the 2025 Hispanic Heritage Art Exhibit.

To watch the September 16 BCC meeting remotely, tune into Orange TV which will carry the meeting live. Viewing options include Channel 488 on Spectrum, Channel 9 on Comcast, 1081 CenturyLink Prism TV, WSWF Channel 10.2 (over the air), stream live at https://www.ocfl.net/orangetv or view via the Orange TV app on ROKU in the Education category.