Mary Cait McManamon
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month in Madison
September 8, 2025
Every fall, Madison comes alive with events honoring Hispanic Heritage Month, a national celebration held September 15 through October 15. It's a time to recognize and uplift the history, culture and countless contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities across the country and right here in our city.
From advocacy and activism to vibrant art, music, dance and, of course, delicious food, Hispanic and Latino cultures have deeply shaped Madison’s identity. Check out this list of events happening across the city to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.
Wednesday, September 17, 12-1:30pm - Hispanic Heritage Month at the Wisconsin State Capitol
Free!
Join this exciting in-person event to celebrate the rich culture and traditions of the Hispanic community. Immerse yourself in vibrant music, delicious food, colorful art and engaging activities. Come and learn about the contributions of Hispanic Americans to our state's history and culture.
Wednesday, September 17, 6-8:30pm – Tacos Without Borders at DelecTable
“Tacos Without Borders” is a hands-on culinary adventure where the iconic Mexican taco meets global flavors. Under the expert guidance of nationally recognized Chef Joel, who brings over 25 years of teaching and cooking experience, you’ll discover how to transform simple tortillas into international taste sensations.
Wednesday, September 17, 5:30pm - Centro x Fontana Sports Five Dollar 5K!
Whether you're a seasoned runner or just looking for a casual jog/walk, this event is perfect for all levels of experience. Get ready to challenge yourself, enjoy the fresh air and have a great time with our community. Don't miss out on this opportunity to get active and support Centro of Dane County!
Friday, September 19, 6-9pm – Grupo Candela at Garver Feed Mill
Catch Kids in the Rotunda fan-favorite Angela Puerta with Grupo Candela, a 12-piece Latin music powerhouse. Based in Madison, they are among the longest-running Latin bands in town. Featuring an all-star lineup of Latin music legends, Grupo Candela offers a diverse repertoire of dance-oriented songs, which includes salsa, merengue, cumbia, bachata, bomba and plena.
Saturday, September 20, 10:30-11:30am – Bilingual Storytime at Penney Library
Free!
Read and play together with children ages five and under in English and Spanish! Engaging with books, songs and playful experiences help children develop communication skills, patience, empathy and pre-reading skills—and helps to build a lifelong love of reading. Library programs are always free. Siblings and childcare groups are welcome.
Monday, September 22, 4-5pm- Children’s International Story Hour - Dominican Republic
Free!
Join the Institute for Regional and International Studies at UW-Madison and Wisconsin Public Libraries at Children’s International Story Hour! This series is a time of sharing award-winning children’s literature that celebrates the diversity of arts, culture and language across the globe. Participants will also learn about global music and engage in hands-on crafts that stimulate curiosity. Each week promises to be fun and enriching. The event is free and designed for children ages 5–10 and their caregivers, but all are welcome! This month, the series takes you to the Dominican Republic with the book “Islandborn” by Junot Díaz.
Monday, September 22 - Brazilian Street Food Cooking Class
Step into the vibrant world of Brazilian street food with Chef Kyra and get ready to create some of the country’s most beloved snacks from scratch. This lively, hands-on class invites you to master the techniques behind Brazil’s iconic bites while enjoying their bold and irresistible flavors.
Wednesday, September 24, 7-8pm - Collected Works of Meg Medina at Central Library
Free!
Presented in partnership with the Friends of the Cooperative Children's Book Center, Meg Medina will join the Wisconsin Book Festival to discuss her books for kids of all ages. Medina is an award-winning Cuban American author of picture books, middle grade novels and teen fiction.
Thursday, September 25, 5-7pm - Hispanic Heritage Month Special Event: Unlocking Your Purpose & Potential
Free!
DreamBank is hosting a very special Hispanic Heritage Month celebration! Centered around a powerful message from keynote speaker Erika Cruz, founder of the Courage Driven Latina Coaching Program, this event invites guests to savor traditional dishes from local-favorites, Mi Casa Es Tu Casa and La Taguara, plus enjoy spirited music and dancing by Rebulú Group as they honor the rich cultural heritage of the Hispanic community.
Friday, September 26, 7-8:15pm - Creativity Without Borders: A Conversation with Vic Garcia
Free!
The Latine Heritage Month Planning Committee are pleased to present the Latine Heritage Month keynote event, “Creativity Without Borders: A Conversation with Vic Garcia.” Garcia is a Miami-based artist and entrepreneur known for his vibrant, character-driven artwork. His work has attracted notable supporters including Bad Bunny, LeBron James, Manny Machado, Alex Rodriguez and Pharrell Williams. Garcia’s message of good energy, inclusivity and community focus is inspiring to all.
Saturday, October 4, 5:30pm - Centro’s Annual Celebration Gala: La Magia del Pueblo
La Magia del Pueblo is Centro’s annual celebration, an evening dedicated to honoring the spirit, strength and creativity of the Latinx community. Through immersive art, storytelling, music and joy, this magical event celebrates the beauty of our culture while uplifting the vital work Centro does year-round.
These are just a few of the ways you can celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. We also encourage you to support local Hispanic businesses and artists, learn about the culture and find out how you can support diversity in our community through volunteering and advocacy. Happy Hispanic Heritage Month!
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(From left): Juan Diaz, Haydn Vitera, Felicia Rojas, and Dan Corona perform as members of Mariachi Rock Revolution -
Angela Puerta (left) with bandmates
More events to look forward to!
Thursday, October 30, 7pm - Mariachi Rock Revolution
Get ready to rock with Mariachi Rock Revolution (MRR)! Brainchild of Grammy-nominated Austin Latino Rocker and Electric Violinist Haydin Vitera, the show is a rock-fueled, Mariachi-infused spectacle of sight and sound celebrating the tradition of Mariachi through an unprecedented fusion with modern rock and electronica.
Saturday, January 31, 9:30am, 11am & 1pm - Angela Puerta at Kids in the Rotunda
Angela Puerta and her band bring a unique blend of entertainment and education to young audiences by incorporating small instruments that kids can play along with during the show. It's an opportunity for kids to immerse themselves in a different culture. Kids can join in, sing along and even learn some basic Spanish words in a fun and interactive way.