Celebrating National Hispanic Heritage Month in Greater Palm Springs: History, Culture, and Local Traditions
National Hispanic Heritage Month, observed from September 15 to October 15, honors the profound contributions and cultural influence of Hispanic Americans on the United States. Established as Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968 by President Lyndon B. Johnson, it was expanded to a full month in 1988 by President Ronald Reagan.
The observance begins on September 15 to coincide with Independence Days in Honduras, Guatemala, El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica (September 15); Mexico (September 16); and Chile (September 18). It extends through October 12, known in Latin America as Día de la Raza or Day of the Race, celebrating the region's diverse heritage—distinct from Indigenous Peoples' Day in the U.S.
Ways to Celebrate
Support Hispanic and locally owned businesses throughout Greater Palm Springs.
Grab coffee at Sixth St. Coffee or Everbloom Coffee. Savor fresh baked goods at Las Tres Conchitas Bakery or authentic Mexican dishes at Jalisco, open since 1971. Indulge in generational favorites at spots like Las Carretas Taco Shop, Guacamoles, Taqueria Sinaloense, El Ranchito, Las Casuelas Original, Delicias, and more. Discover additional Mexican cuisine options in Greater Palm Springs here.
Join the Hispanic Heritage Month Reading Challenge hosted by Palm Springs Public Library. Dive into Hispanic culture, track your reads, complete activities, and earn badges throughout the month.
Explore the captivating murals adorning Greater Palm Springs, which tell powerful stories of community builders and local history. Click here for a self-guided or virtual mural tour.
Early Years in the Coachella Valley
Coachella Valley's earliest Hispanic immigrants arrived fleeing political unrest and economic hardship from the Mexican Revolution, followed by the Cristero War. The railroad's construction later drew more settlers seeking opportunity.
The Delgado family's legacy stands out: In 1958, Maria and Florencio Delgado brought their mother Maria Fajardo's recipes from Arizona to open the Original Las Casuelas in Palm Springs. Today, multiple locations continue serving those time-honored dishes across Greater Palm Springs.
