From Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, Hispanic and Latino culture, heritage and history is celebrated nationwide for Hispanic Heritage Month. In Signal Hill, children and families can attend various art workshops and physical activities to learn about Latino culture in fun and free ways.
Hispanic Heritage Month began as a one-week celebration in 1968 and was extended to one month in 1988 under President Ronald Reagan. The beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month coincides with independence days in Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Mexico, Chile and Belize.
The City is also hosting events related to Dia de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead. This Latin holiday brings families and friends together to honor their loved ones who have died, through their favorite foods, candies and decorations.
All events celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month will be hosted at the Signal Hill Public Library unless stated otherwise.
Thursday, Sept. 25: The Diversity Coalition Committee will hold an evening of storytelling and inspiration, with a special guest speaker, refreshments and special crafts at the Signal Hill Public Library from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Monday, Sept. 29: The Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA) will host an interactive and educational family art workshop, where residents can make art inspired by Mexican artists from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at 628 Alamitos Ave. Free.
Thursday, Oct. 2: The Signal Hill Public Library will host Ecos De España, a demonstration featuring Spanish classical and flamenco music and dancing, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. This session is meant for all ages and is free.
Saturday, Nov. 1: Those ages 5 and older can decorate a ceramic calavera (sugar skull) to put on their own ofrenda in honor of the dead for Dia de los Muertos at the Signal Hill Public Library from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Monday, Nov. 3: Immerse yourself in the sounds of traditional Aztec instruments through an Aztec sound bath guided by Martin Espino at the Signal Hill Public Library from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Bring a yoga mat or blanket and comfortable clothing. Registration is required for this meditation session by calling the library at 562-989-7330. Free.
Mondays: Children and their families can enjoy a Spanish storytime at the Signal Hill Public Library every Monday from 2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. This storytime is great for native Spanish speakers and parents who want their child to get exposed to the Spanish language. The sessions also include music and crafts. Free.
Tuesdays: Residents 16 and older can get in a fun, high energy dance workout with zumba every Tuesday evening at the Signal Hill Public Library from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Visitors are asked to bring a water bottle, and to wear comfortable shoes and clothing they can move freely in.
