Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month 2023 in Tallahassee
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What do Pitbull, Becky G, and Jennifer Lopez have in common? They’re all critically acclaimed musicians, have all been nominated and won several awards, performed sold-out tours, and oh, yeah, they’re also all Hispanic American. The success of Latinos in the U.S. stretches far beyond just music, with renowned artists, actors, businesspeople, company owners, politicians, and much more, Latinos have helped shape the U.S. and continue to every day. Annually, from September 15th to October 15th, we honor all the history, culture, and contributions of Hispanic Americans, and though a month isn’t nearly long enough to truly celebrate all the wonderful things Latinos do for our country, here are some fun ways you can celebrate the heritage this month, locally here in Tallahassee.
Celebrate through food.
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Maria Maria is a restaurant located in Midtown Tallahassee and serves authentic Mexican cuisine. Owned by Edgar Gomez, who first began his restaurant business in his hometown in Mexico, La Yerbabuena, every dish is served fresh and homemade with family recipes learned from his grandmother. Maria Maria is the place to be for the best tostadas in Tallahassee.
If you’re looking for some authentic and affordable tacos closer to FSU’s campus, Los Compadres has some of the best Al Pastor tacos in Tallahassee. While always playing traditional Mariachi music, this festive environment combined with their delicious tacos creates a great night out.
Ever had an arepa? Traditional authentic Venezuelan restaurant, Venebites, serves homemade Venezuelan arepas (stuffed cornmeal cakes that are crispy outside and fluffy on the inside). Reina Pepiada or Arepa Vegana is an absolute must-try from Venebites. They also serve tequeños, sancochos, and my personal favorite (as a Venezuelan myself): cachitos (ham crescents). Having a Venezuelan restaurant here in Tallahassee really helps me feel like I have a part of my home and culture here—and getting to eat delicious food is a bonus.
Celebrate through art.
Leon County is hosting an art exhibit at the Leroy Collins Public Library called “Cultura Tallahassee: Together we shine.” The exhibit's goal is to celebrate Hispanic culture, featuring artwork from local Latino artists. This is a great opportunity to support local artists and learn about Hispanic culture through their work.
Celebrate through music.
Are you a fan of reggaeton? Lucky for you, artist De La Ghetto is performing on September 22nd here in Tallahassee. Featured on several Maluma, Bad Bunny, and Nicky Jam songs, De La Ghetto is an amazing Latin Urbano musician. Grab some friends and have a fun night out dancing to some reggaeton.
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If reggaeton isn’t for you and you’re into a more traditional Latin music sound, Gipsy Kings blends a traditional flamenco sound with Western pop and Latin rhythm, and they’re performing at Cascades Park on October 20th. With tickets ranging from $30-$65, you can’t miss this opportunity to listen to their unique sound.
Beyond these exciting opportunities to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month this year in Tallahassee, there are always ways you can support local Hispanics in your community through supporting their small businesses, restaurants, art, and much more. Although Hispanics only make up about 7% of the Tallahassee population, they have implemented themselves and their culture in so many different aspects of this city. Whether you are Hispanic like me and want to stay in touch with your culture and connect with other Hispanics in Tallahassee or you are non-Hispanic but have an appreciation of culture and want to learn more about Hispanics in the U.S., use this month as an opportunity to learn more about what makes us Latinos such an essential component to America.
Strike Out,
Writer: Daniella Garcia-Novas
Editor: Blake N. Fiadino
Tallahassee