Hispanic Heritage Month

September 15 – October 15

Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to recognize and celebrate the many contributions, diverse cultures, and extensive histories of the American Latino community. Beginning in 1968, it was Hispanic Heritage Week, which was later extended to Hispanic Heritage Month in 1988.

The month celebrates the independence days of several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua on September 15th, Mexico on September 16th, and Chile on September 18th. It also includes holidays recognizing Hispanic contributions, such as Virgin Islands-Puerto Rico Friendship Day, celebrated in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

As we mark the start of Hispanic Heritage Month, Palm Springs is proud to celebrate the cultures, contributions and resilience of Latinx, Hispanic and Latino-identified communities. This celebration has become a vital opportunity to dispel ignorance, prejudice and fear through education about multiculturalism and the history of the countless contributions of Hispanic communities.

The Arrival of Hispanic Settlers

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Hispanic settlers began to establish themselves in Palm Springs and the surrounding areas. Many of these settlers were laborers who worked on the construction of the Southern Pacific Railroad, which played a crucial role in connecting Palm Springs with other parts of California. Their hard work and perseverance contributed to the development of the region.

In the mid-20th century, Palm Springs saw a significant increase in its Hispanic population. Many Hispanic families moved to the area seeking better economic opportunities. They contributed to the city’s growth, working in various sectors, including agriculture, hospitality, and construction. The vibrant Hispanic community helped enrich Palm Springs with a blend of traditions, cuisine, and cultural festivals.

Las Casuals and The Delgado Family

We salute the Delgado family, owners of the Las Casuals restaurants. The restaurant’s recipes date back to the 1920s when Florencio Delgado’s mother, Maria Farjardo, fed copper miners in Arizona who came to her kitchen door to purchase delicious meals she prepared in her earthenware pots and pans. Florencio (Del) with his wife, Mary, brought his mother’s authentic Mexican recipes to Palm Springs in 1958. They opened the original Las Casuelas nearly 60 years ago.

Over the next few decades, the Delgado family opened four more restaurants in Palm Springs, each owned and operated by one of their children. Del and Mary’s daughter, Patricia, brought Las Casuelas Terraza to Palm Springs 40 years ago.

El Mirasol and the Castaneda Family

El Mirasol Cocina Mexicana was founded in 1985 by Filipe Castaneda, a talented chef and entrepreneur with a deep love for Mexican cuisine. Filipe, originally from Mexico, envisioned bringing the rich and diverse flavors of his homeland to Palm Springs. His goal was to create a dining experience that celebrated traditional Mexican dishes with authenticity and flair. His culinary approach emphasizes the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients and time-honored techniques.

His entrepreneurial drive led him in the remodeling of Los Arboles Hotel, home of the second El Mirasol in the Movie Colony neighborhood. His Children and family now play a significant role in thew restaurant’s day-to-day activities and overall success. Their story is a testament to the power of family, tradition, and community involvement in creating a lasting and meaningful impact.

See all Mexican & Latin Restaurants

NVISION Latino Fim & Music Festival

Oct 10 – 12, Multiple Locations

Palm Springs Arts Museum celebrates its partnership with The Official Latino Film Festival with its relaunch as the NVISION Latino Film & Music Festival celebrating its 10th anniversary. Enjoy film screenings, engaging panels, and special presentations at the Annenberg Theater and Regal Cinemas. Enjoy cocktail receptions in the beautiful Meyerman Garden, and experience nightlife programming at Reforma.

This partnership holds a deep sense of pride with the continued effort of championing the rich diversity and creativity of Latino Culture in Film and Music. Their mission is to change the narrative within the film and music industry by discovering diverse talent and providing a prominent platform to showcase innovative work from Latina and Latino artists, our goal is to amplify their voices and foster an environment of inclusivity and cultural celebration. Tickets

Cascade Lounge Latino Nights

Sunday Latin Nights in the Cascade Lounge, located just off the casino floor at Agua Caliente Palm Springs, is the perfect place to enjoy dancing, drinks and nightlife in the heart of downtown. Enjoy a great selection of beers and mixed cocktails from our full-service bar, then head to the dance floor to enjoy our state-of-the-art sound and lighting system. Free show 9 pm – 1:30 am.

Hispanic Nights at Reforma Palm Springs

Sombrero Sundays at Reforma in Palm Springs are a lively and fun-filled event. Held every Sunday from 9 pm to 2 am, this event features live music, dancing, and a vibrant atmosphere. The music ranges from cumbias and reggaeton to banda. Bring friends along for a night of laughter and good times. The event is for ages 21 and over, and there’s free parking available at the venue.

Banda Night is every Thursday at Reforma. Features Banda 760 – Es Lo Que Hay, or It is what it is. Their shows are known for their lively and energetic performances, making it a great way to kick off the weekend early. If you enjoy vibrant music and a fun atmosphere, catching one of their performances could be a fantastic experience. Doors open at 9 pm and it is free entry before 10:30 pm.

Gasolina Nights every Friday. Gasolina Party is a community for Reggaeton & Latin music fans that are pushing the culture forward. Gasolina has grown to be the largest reggaeton party in the U.S., bringing our party into iconic venues across the country. Doors open at 9 pm.

Celebrating LGBTQ Hispanic Heritage

Enjoy Latin Mondays Drag Review at Toucan’s Tiki  Lounge. Every Monday, the lounge transforms into a lively celebration of Latin culture and drag artistry. The event typically features a lineup of talented drag performers who bring their A-game with dynamic performances, elaborate costumes, and high-energy routines. The event draws a diverse crowd and is a great opportunity to experience both local drag talent and a festive night out.

Latin Owned

Cutting-edge casual fashions with a distinctly Coachella Valley vibe, Tru Self Care Boutique is a family-owned and Latina–owned shop opened up in La Plaza in 2021. Shoppers will find a lovingly-curated selection of chic items from Mexican artists and designers, including flowing peasant skirts, on-trend items like oversized jackets, and cropped tees with empowering themes.

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