8 Ways to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Milwaukee
Mexican paper banners, or papel picado

8 Ways to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Milwaukee

Salsa dancing, exhibitions and Day of the Dead ofrendas are among the local events marking Hispanic Heritage Month, from Sept. 15-Oct. 15.

1. “Recognizing Us” Art Exhibition

THROUGH OCT. 4 | THE CATACOMBS AT NETO ART MUSEUM

On display for Hispanic Heritage Month, the Catacombs of Neto Art Museum invites guests into a world of collective memories. “Recognizing Us” combines paintings, installations and visual storytelling as a way to reflect on the progress Latinos in America have made through generations. The exhibit covers themes of identities through family histories, relationships and more. The museum is open Tue-Sun from 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

2. HHM Financial Essentials for Entrepreneurs

SEPT. 26 AT 10 A.M. | BREW-JAS COFFEE HOUSE MKE

Solorzano and Associates are hosting a finance class for Latino entrepreneurs, where speakers will cover financial planning, risk management, and helping people feel empowered in their financial decisions. Guests are encouraged to grab a coffee, network with other business owners and participate in a complimentary consultation after the presentation.

3. 512: The Selena Experience – Still Dreaming of You Tour

SEPT. 26 FROM 7:30-10 P.M. | SOUTH MILWAUKEE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

Have you ever wanted to see Selena live? Well, here’s your chance! 512: The Selena Experience is keeping the iconic performer’s energy alive with this tribute show. The performance is high-energy and family-friendly, and lead singer Evelyn Molina sings all of Selena’s greatest hits.

4. Dia de los Muertos

OCT. 1-NOV. 1 | MILWAUKEE PUBLIC LIBRARY

The Milwaukee Public Library is celebrating Dia de Los Muertos all throughout October. The month includes themed crafts such as mason jar lanterns and tissue-paper marigolds, a screening of Disney’s Coco, and making mini ofrendas to welcome those who have passed back to the land of the living. The Mitchell Street branch will feature a community ofrenda throughout October, and everyone is welcome to bring a few photos to add to the display. Check out the calendar for a full list of activities and dates.

5. Hispanic Heritage Month Closeout Celebration

OCT. 8 FROM 4-8 P.M. | 3RD STREET MARKET HALL

At this community market, browse vendors while listening to live music and watching performances, try food from local restaurants and attend a mental health fireside chat to learn more about wellness and local resources. It’s a great way to end Hispanic Heritage Month surrounded by community.

6. Beats & Baile: A Salsa Social

OCT. 9 FROM 7-9:30 P.M. | LATINO ARTS

This night of dancing kicks off with a salsa lesson from Betsy Guerrero of Mezclando Dance Co. before DJ Saffiro fills the floor with a unique mix of traditional Latin music and modern club beats danceable for all skill levels.

7. Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with Milwaukee Public Museum

THROUGH OCT. 10 | MILWAUKEE PUBLIC MUSEUM

From now until Oct. 10, the Milwaukee Public Museum is presenting a plethora of Latin American programing in celebration of the rich mix of cultures. Learn about the origin of el maíz (corn), witness the process of making cocao beans into chocolate, read the Milwaukee Latino history timeline and more throughout the month. The exhibit is spread across all three floors of the museum.

8. Celebracion Latina

OCT. 10 FROM 11 A.M.-3 P.M. | MILWAUKEE PUBLIC MUSEUM

MPM closes out its Hispanic Heritage Month programming by honoring the deep roots our Milwaukee’s Hispanic heritage. There’ll be Afro-Latin and Caribbean dance performances from Combining Cultures with free dance lessons afterward, an artisan market filled with local artists and a spotlight on the museum’s collection of Latin American goods. Education stations can be found around the building, and all ages are invited to the party.