Hispanic Heritage Month is a vibrant celebration of the contributions and influence of Hispanic culture on the U.S. Originally a week-long observance, it became a month-long celebration in 1988 thanks to President Reagan. Uniquely, it runs from September 15 to October 15, coinciding with the independence days of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.
As of the 2020 Census, 61.2 million Hispanics live in the U.S., with 8% residing in Florida. Polk County ranks 10th in the state for Hispanic population, with 27% of its residents identifying as Hispanic. This growing community brings significant economic and cultural contributions to the region—more businesses, a larger workforce, and an increase in local shopping and housing demands.
How to Support Hispanic-Owned Businesses
One great way to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month is by supporting local Hispanic-owned businesses. Polk County Moms has created a resource page featuring locally owned Hispanic businesses in the area. Whether it’s a small or large purchase, these businesses appreciate the support. Personally, I love hearing from people who found a new event or shop through our website—it’s a great feeling to know we’re connecting the community.
Beyond purchasing, word of mouth is a powerful tool. Telling your friends and family about a great local business can help it grow. Another simple, but impactful way to support is through social media. Liking, commenting, and sharing posts can make a huge difference, especially for smaller businesses trying to gain visibility in a large county like Polk.
Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Through Food
For me, one of the best ways to celebrate Hispanic Heritage is through food! Hispanic cuisine is incredibly diverse, with each country offering its own unique flavors. From Puerto Rican Mofongo and Cuban Sandwiches to Nicaraguan Salpicon and Mexican Tamales, there’s so much to enjoy. This month, I’ll definitely be indulging in the variety of flavors Polk County has to offer—and the bonus? I get to enjoy delicious meals without having to cook!
So, whether you’re trying out a new dish or discovering a hidden gem of a shop, Hispanic Heritage Month is a wonderful time to explore and celebrate the richness of Hispanic culture right here in our community.
