City Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month

The City invites you to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with educational and cultural presentations and activities happening throughout the City.

An official proclamation designating September 15 through October 15, 2026, as "Hispanic Heritage Month" in the City of Gaithersburg was presented at the September 8 Mayor and City Council meeting. View the presentation.

Residents are encouraged to learn about and celebrate Hispanic culture and participate in City events and programs taking place throughout the month.

The roots of Hispanic heritage in North America span more than 500 years, and individuals sharing this heritage have made vast contributions to the strength, prosperity, and culture of our nation. The observance celebrates the culture and traditions of U.S. residents who trace their cultural heritage to Spain, Mexico, and the Spanish-speaking nations of Central and South America and the Caribbean.

The start of the heritage month, September 15, is significant as several Latin countries celebrate its independence from Spain on this day, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexico and Chile also celebrate its independence on September 16 and 18, respectfully.

The Hispanic American community is the largest ethnic minority in the United States, with the 2020 Census indicating that approximately 28.5% of the City of Gaithersburg's population identify themselves as Hispanic or Latino up from 24.2% in 2010.

To further support the City's commitment to celebrating and elevating the diverse cultures that shape our community, these Hispanic Heritage Month activities are coordinated in partnership with the Multicultural Affairs Committee. The mission of the Multicultural Affairs Committee is to enrich our City through the promotion of understanding, respect, and appreciation of the many cultures of Gaithersburg. Learn more here.