Hispanic Heritage Hot Spots
Kendall Whittier District - Tulsa
Tulsa's Kendall Whittier District is one of the state's most prominent areas for Hispanic culture. The district has undergone a major revitalization in recent years, bringing in new businesses, attractions and events every year. There are plenty of dining options here, such as Cancun International Restaurant, Calaveras Mexican Grill, and the Pancho Anaya Bakery, where you'll find traditional baked goods made from recipes that have been passed down over five generations.
In addition to permanent fixtures, the Kendall Whittier District hosts special events during Hispanic Heritage Month. The district's Los Festivales Y Mercados: Dia De La Independencia is one of the state's premier showcases of Latin American culture. Guests can experience authentic dance performances, browse in the Mercado shopping area and feast on a large selection of traditional Latin foods. Before you leave, check out the area's historic Hispanic landmarks like the Buena Onda Mural and the Abogadas neon sign, one of Route 66’s first Spanish language neon signs.
Capitol Hill - Oklahoma City
The Historic Capitol Hill District was once slated to be the state's capital until it was annexed to Oklahoma City in 1911. Now, it's home to Calle Dos Cinco, a growing hub for multicultural businesses, restaurants and attractions. There's always something going on in this vibrant district, but during Hispanic Heritage Month, the Fiestas De Las Americas is a can't-miss celebration. The celebration gets started with a 5K Family Fun Run before a parade runs through Capitol Hill. Local artists will be on hand selling their authentic goods while singers, dancers and performers entertain guests throughout the day.
While you're in the area, grab a bite to eat at restaurants like El Potosino, which specialize in traditional Mexican cuisine. Visitors can also grab traditional Mexican desserts at Mi Terroncito, which bakes an assortment of fresh ducce bread, bolillos-tellers and more traditional treats every day.
Hispanic Heritage Month Events
Festival of the Matachines - Oklahoma City
During Hispanic Heritage Month in Oklahoma City, experience thrilling performances from renowned Spanish dance troupes at the Festival of the Matachines. Matachine troupes from all over Oklahoma will descend on the Blessed Stanley Rother Shrine to participate in this full day of dance. Guests will learn about this amazing tradition and get to see which groups are recognized for outstanding performances.
Festival Americas - Guthrie Green
Each year, Guthrie Green in Tulsa hosts the Festival Americas. This free-to-attend celebration features live music, dance performances and vendors with Latin American backgrounds. Make sure you stick around to see a new works of art come to life during the live mural painting.
Viva La Raza: Hispanic Heritage Festival - Clinton
The Viva La Raza: Hispanic Heritage Festival in Clinton is a great opportunity to celebrate Oklahoma's Hispanic communities. Follow the traditional horse parade through town, which ends at McLain Rogers Park, where the fun continues. There will be a car show, the Reina Hispana Pageant, and a jalapeño eating contest for those who think they can take the heat.
"Presente in Oklahoma" Honoree Luncheon - Oklahoma City
During Hispanic Heritage Month, the Oklahoma Historical Society will honor some of the state's most influential people during the Presente in Oklahoma Honoree Luncheon. Honorees include Dr. Daniel Molina, Patricia Fennell, Tina Peña and more who will participate in book signings, performances, and engaging speeches. This event is a unique opportunity to learn about the people who have worked and are currently working to make Oklahoma's Hispanic culture what it is today.
Hispanic & Latino Concerts in Oklahoma
Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, artists are regularly performing in amazing venues across the state. During the celebratory month, you can catch a performance from Mexican underground rappers La Santa Grifa & Dharius at Oklahoma City's Tower Theatre. Just a couple of miles away at The Criterion, you can catch a show from Cuco and two shows from Grammy Award-winner Juanes.
During the Tulsa State Fair, Los Herederos De Nuevo Leon will treat a packed house to their incredible Norteño music. Later, back in Oklahoma City, the Paycom Center will host Latin pop sensation Chayanne, where he'll perform hits from his massively successful discography that spans four decades.
