Hispanic Heritage Month Teacher Resources

Hispanic Heritage Month starts September 15 and ends October 15. Celebrate the histories, cultures and achievements of American citizens with Hispanic heritage in your classroom with this collection of fun lesson ideas, choice boards, and printable student activities.

Hispanic Heritage Month Activities for Students

Hispanic Heritage Month is a rich opportunity for students to engage with and learn about the diverse cultures and histories of Hispanic countries.

Celebrate this event in your classroom with our classroom activities that will enhance student understanding and appreciation of Hispanic Heritage Month.

From reading culturally significant literature to playing traditional games and learning about important customs, these activities offer a comprehensive and interactive way to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month.

What is Hispanic Heritage Month?

Hispanic Heritage Month is a month-long celebration recognizing the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States. It's a time to celebrate the rich cultures and many contributions of American citizens who have ancestral roots in Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

When is Hispanic Heritage Month?

Hispanic Heritage Month lasts from September 15th to October 15th every year. September 15th is a significant date for Hispanic heritage as it’s the anniversary of independence for the Latin countries of Costa Rica, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua. During this month, Mexico and Chile also celebrate their independence days on September 16th and September 18th.

Hispanic Heritage Month was originally celebrated as Hispanic Heritage Week, but in 1988 it was extended to a month-long period.

Why Do We Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month?

Hispanic Heritage Month is an opportunity to celebrate and learn about the history, culture, contributions, and achievements of American citizens with ancestors from Mexico, Spain, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

September 15 is a significant date for Hispanic heritage as it’s the anniversary of independence for the Latin countries of Costa Rica, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, and Nicaragua. During this month, Mexico and Chile also celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September 18.

What is This Year’s Hispanic Heritage Month Theme?

Each year, the U.S. Department of Education chooses a theme for Hispanic Heritage Month.

In 2023, the Hispanic Heritage Month theme was “Latinos: Driving Prosperity, Power and Progress in America.” The theme for 2024 has yet to be announced.

Hispanic Heritage Month Activities for Students: How to Celebrate in the Classroom

The study of Hispanic heritage offers the chance to explore many diverse and rich cultures during Hispanic Heritage Month.

TeacherVision’s Hispanic Heritage Month activities for students, including lesson plans, printable worksheets, and references, are perfect for integrating the holiday across your curriculum. These activities and resources are versatile and great for teachers of any grade level, including elementary, middle, or high school.

Read the books The House on Mango Street and Shadow of a Bull, learn about Mexico's Day of the Dead, play mariachi music, practice Spanish vocabulary, discover the customs and traditions of Hispanic heritage, play Puerto Rico's circle game, learn about the Spanish-language influence on English, and much more!