HERMISTON, Ore.-Hermiston’s third annual Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration brought the community together on October 3.
Hundreds of people filled the Hermiston Community Center for the celebration hosted by the City of Hermiston and the Hispanic Advisory Committee.
“It’s rewarding to see our community come together to celebrate Hispanic culture, traditions, and contributions,” said Jessica De La Cruz, a member of the Hispanic Advisory Committee. “The event provides an opportunity for people of all backgrounds to learn from one another, build connections, and foster a greater sense of inclusion and belonging in Hermiston.
Hispanic Heritage Month
Hispanic Heritage Month started as a weeklong observance in 1968 but expanded into a monthlong celebration lasting from September 15 through October 15, in 1988.
Celebrating the diverse contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans across all aspects of society, including the arts, science, sports, politics, civil rights, and more, the goal of Hispanic Heritage Month is to inspire future generations and promote cultural understanding.
As of 2026, the Hispanic and Latino population in America is over 70 million people, representing about 21% of the total U.S. population, according to the Census Bureau.
Hermiston celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month
According to De La Cruz, the Hermiston’s Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration continues to grow, with over 340 people attending this year.
The celebration featured music, a costume parade, dancing, as well as community resource booths.
“I’m here today as a member of the Hispanic Advisory Committee,” said Hermiston City Councilor Jeff Kelso. “I come every year, the music and food are good, it’s always a great event.”
A salsa contest allowed attendees to sample various homemade salsas and vote for the best, and food from Tacos Xavi, as well as ice cream and drinks were also available.
Kids enjoyed a bounce house, spin art, and face painting, while entertainment included a costume parade, where participants dressed in clothing representing different regions and cultures of Mexico, as well as dancing from Ballet Folklórico.
According to De La Cruz, several community partners, including Good Shepherd Health Care System (GSHCS) and SunRise Cleaning, as well as Aviles Rentals and El Caporal, contributed to the success of the event.
“Their sponsorships and donations help us provide a welcoming and meaningful celebration for families,” said De La Cruz.
Community resources available at the celebration included booths from Good Shepherd Health Care System (GSHCS), Euvalcree, Oregon Rural Health, Migrant Education Oregon, Umatilla Morrow Head Start, and many more.
