On September 15, 2021 National Hispanic Heritage Month kicked off in the United States. The month lasts until October 15 and it is filled with many celebrations all over the nation. Specifically, the month is dedicated to celebrating the history, contributions, and cultures of Hispanic nations and people around the world. It started in 1968 as a week-long celebration; however, in 1988, the celebration was extended to a whole month. . 

One big reason for celebrating this month is the amount of significant days found in it. September 15 is independence day for many Latin American countries including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Soon after on September 16, Mexico celebrates their independence day. Then on September 18, Chile celebrates their own. 

Many large cities surrounding Lexington have celebrations occurring this month. In Charlottesville, different Hispanic bands played at a concert put on by a local radio station. Roanoke is getting prepared for its annual Local Colors Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration on October 2. 

In Lexington on September 20, Project Horizon, CARE Rockbridge, and a few other organizations put on the annual Latinx Festival. It took place from 5-8 at Hopkins Green in downtown Lexington. It was full of face painting, food, live music, booths, and games. 

Here at Rockbridge County High School, the Spanish teachers are doing small class celebrations. Mr. Martin’s and Ms. Vest’s students are coloring banners of famous people of Hispanic heritage to hang in the halls. Along with that, they are making info sheets on famous people to hang in the hallways before the end of the month.