Hispanic Heritage Month is recognized annually from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15.
Hispanic Heritage Month is a celebration of the history and culture of Hispanic communities as well as an opportunity to commemorate the influences and contributions of these communities have added to American society at large.
In Tempe, this includes community events that recognize the past, present and future of Hispanic communities through traditions, cultural celebrations, art, performances, and more.
From day one, the Hispanic community has played a considerable role in Tempe’s history.
More than 300 years ago, Spanish settlers traveled north of central Mexico into what is now Arizona and started families that would live here for generations, some descendants becoming pioneer settlers of Tempe.
One of these settlers was Manuela Sánchez Sotelo, also known as the Mother of Tempe. After her husband’s death, she traveled to Tempe to manage the family ranch. She created new American-Mexican relationships, shared her land with other Mexican families and was an early supporter of the new Territorial Normal School in Tempe. Her historic contributions to our city are why we continue to grow today!
Many Hispanic community members also acted as the backbone of projects that grew Tempe, working on canals, farmland, Charles Trumbull Hayden’s blacksmith & wagon shops and at Hayden Flour Mill, one of the most prominent agricultural industries in the Valley at the time.
Each year, Tempe holds various Hispanic Heritage Month events to honor and celebrate our Hispanic communities, and we invite you to join us throughout this month and beyond:
Sept. 20, 2025: Hispanic Heritage Night at the Phoenix Rising FC
Phoenix Rising FC Stadium
The 2023 USL Champions invite you to honor Hispanic Heritage on Saturday, Sept. 20, as they face off against Loudoun United FC. Fans can join the celebration and experience activations with a Hispanic twist throughout the match. The evening will also feature unique food options, music and a featured merch item of the night will be on sale.
Oct. 12, 2025: Indígena: A Latin American Indigenous Celebration
Tempe Center for the Arts
A vibrant celebration honoring the rich traditions, artistry, and resilience of Latin America’s Indigenous communities, Indígena is presented by Tempe Center for the Arts in collaboration with Cultural Coalition, Inc. From 2 to 5 p.m., this free, family friendly event brings together live music, dance stortytelling, and stunning visual art in a joyful tribute to heritage and identity.
Oct. 16 & Nov. 13, 2025: Lotería Nights
Desert Botanical Garden
Join the garden for rounds of Lotería, a Mexican card game similar to bingo, from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. on a select Thursday in October and November. Play for a chance to win prizes, and enjoy tasty food, drinks, música y más. Must be 21 and over to play.
Oct. 31 – Nov. 3, 2025: Día de Muertos | Festival: Nov. 1 & 2 | Altar (ofrenda): Oct. 31 – Nov. 3
Desert Botanical Garden
Celebrate Día de Muertos at this two-day festival filled with music, dance, storytelling and more, at the Desert Botanical Garden. Beginning on Friday, Oct. 31, a community altar (ofrenda) — featuring the work of Oaxacan artisans in an authentic and moving tribute honoring lost loved ones — will be on display in Ottosen Gallery. The festival, which takes place Saturday and Sunday, will includes La Procesión, a procession honoring passed loved ones (5 to 6 p.m.), as well as food, music, face painting, crafts and more.
Nov. 1 & 2, 2025: Día de los Muertos
Phoenix Zoo
Step into a world of color, music, food and tradición at the Phoenix Zoo. The entire family is invited to the Phoenix Zoo’s first-ever Día de los Muertos, a joyful weekend celebration of life and remembrance. Spend a day exploring the vibrant altars, cultural art, festive performances and family friendly activities inspired by the rich traditions of Día de los Muertos.
Nov. 2, 2025: Tempe Tardeada
Tempe Community Center Complex
Celebrate Tempe’s Hispanic history and roots at the annual Tempe Tardeada, an afternoon festival featuring music, dancing, and traditional Mexican foods, arts and crafts, face painting and inflatables for children — all for free from noon to 8 p.m. For 2025, this event takes place over Día de Muertos weekend.
