Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month in Tualatin Valley
September 15 to October 15
Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the contributions of Americans tracing their roots to Spain, Mexico, Central America, South America and the Spanish-speaking nations of the Caribbean. In 1968, the U.S. Congress set aside a week for this observance and two decades later expanded it to a month stretching from September 15 to October 15. The timing is historically significant as September 15 is the anniversary of independence in Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. The designated period is also a nod to those from Mexico and Chile, which celebrate their independence September 16 and September 18, respectively. (Source: US Census Bureau)
Tualatin Valley has a strong and rich Hispanic and Latino community, and several organizations hold the community together as cultural centers for Hispanic families.
Cultural Centers
Adelante Mujeres, which aims to empower Latinas, puts on the Forest Grove Farmers Market (Wednesday, 4-8 p.m.) and the Cornelius Farmers Market (Friday, 4-8 p.m.). The markets were started to foster cross-cultural exchange and gives small farmers a chance to connect with the community. At the market, you’ll find locally-grown produce, handmade crafts, meat, eggs, baked goods and prepared food.
Centro Cultural de Washington County has dance classes and annual events, including Dia de los Muertos.
Events
During Hispanic Heritage Month, two signature events celebrate these vibrant communities.
El Grito (September 16, 2-7 p.m.) celebrates El Grito, the battle cry of the Mexican War of Independence. On September 16, 1810, the date now celebrated as Mexico’s Independence Day, Hidalgo voiced the “Cry of Dolores,” which called Mexicans to rise against the Spanish crown and fight for independence. The El Grito marks the start of Hispanic Heritage Month and celebrates Mexican Independence Day, as well as the independence of six other Latin American countries:
- Chile
- Costa Rica
- El Salvador
- Guatemala
- Honduras
- Nicaragua
The festival will include music, food, family activities and more at Shute Park in Hillsboro.
El Tigre Fest (October 15) is a family-friendly cultural event in the city of Tigard. The festival features Latin American food, arts and crafts, children’s activities, dancing and live music. Enjoy musical performances by six Latin-influenced bands, as well as dancing from Flamenco Northwest and Baile Folklorico De Colores.
Dining in Tualatin Valley
Celebrate and support the Tualatin Valley’s Hispanic and Latino communities at the region’s multitude of restaurants. Tualatin Valley’s plethora of Mexican, South American and Caribbean cuisine will give you a taste of the region.
Try mofongos at Boriken, the region’s first Puerto Rican and Caribbean restaurant. Beaverton is also home to Ome Calli, where you can get a frozen treat inspired by Mexican flavors. Try a chamoyada, a type of shaved ice with chili powder, lime juice and chamoy sauce.
In Hillsboro, Pepper’s Mexican Grill is a popular spot, as well as Amelia’s Mexican Restaurant where you can get tacos, enchiladas and other satisfying cuisine. There are also a wealth of family-owned Mexican bakeries and restaurants with delicious and authentic food.
Sanchez Taqueria y Panaderia has been a Tigard mainstay for decades. Enjoy tacos, burritos and enchiladas or take home some delicious Mexican sweet and savory breads.
