Hispanic Heritage Month began Sept.15, honoring the culture and contributions of Latinos across the country. Here in Houston, celebrations are taking shape in neighborhoods like Second Ward — or Segundo Barrio — where residents say the month is about more than tradition.
Today also marks Mexico’s Independence Day, celebrated with El Grito in Mexico City. President Claudia Sheinbaum made history as the first woman to lead the ceremony, ringing the bell at the National Palace and shouting “¡Viva México!” as fireworks filled the sky. Families in Houston echoed the celebration with flags, food, and music in the streets.
Poder Hispano festival set for Oct. 4
One of the city’s most anticipated events this year is the fourth annual Poder Hispano Festival, happening Oct. 4 at Post Houston. Founded by Carolina Arenas, the nonprofit showcases small businesses, food, music, and art from across Latin America.
Maria Duran, a member of Poder Hispano, said the festival is designed to highlight both culture and community power.
“It really is showcasing the power of Latinos here in Houston. We highlight small businesses, folklore, the colors, the music, the dance. That’s what our culture is really about,” she said.
This year’s theme is “Collective Heritage: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future.” Organizers expect more than 500 people to attend, with Aztec dancers, tango lessons, cumbia performances, and an art exhibit featuring nine Latin American artists. The festival is free and open to the public.
Addressing fears, building unity
While Hispanic Heritage Month is about pride, some families in Houston say they’ve felt hesitant to attend large gatherings because of immigration enforcement fears. Duran said the festival is meant to counter that fear with unity.
“We need to show up. We need to be unified. This is the time to do it. These are the events to do that,” she said.
She added that Post Houston offers a secure venue that helps families feel at ease.
For Duran, the goal is to create a safe space where people not only enjoy food and entertainment but also leave with a greater understanding of Latino culture.
“We hope that people learn. We hope people really learn about each other, that we learn about the cultures that we embrace. At the end of the day, we all have so many similarities that it’s important for us to be unified,” she said.
Community voices
Residents in Segundo Barrio told KPRC 2 the month is about pride, no matter the challenges.
“It just brings the best in us. The unity, the food, the culture — it just means a lot,” one attendee said.
Parents also emphasized that visibility matters for the next generation.
“I want my kids to grow up proud. That’s why we’re here,” another parent shared.
Looking ahead
Duran said Poder Hispano wants to grow beyond a festival and become a staple of Houston, a place where the entire community — not just Latinos — can learn and celebrate together.
“This is for Latinos, yes, but it’s also for everyone. It’s a chance to learn about our cultures, enjoy, and recognize that diversity is what makes Houston strong,” she said.
The Poder Hispano Festival takes place Oct. 4 from noon to 6 p.m. at Post Houston. Organizers say the goal is simple: Hispanic Heritage Month should be about pride, not fear.