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Montgomery County will celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with the Hispanic Heritage Month Unity Festival from noon to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19, at Marian Fryer Town Plaza, 2425 Reedie Drive in Wheaton. The free, family-friendly festival will bring residents together to celebrate the cultures, traditions, and contributions of Montgomery County’s Hispanic and Latino communities through live music, food, cultural activities, and community connections.
The free, family-friendly festival will bring the community together for an afternoon of live music, food, cultural activities, and a celebration of Hispanic and Latino cultures and traditions.
National Hispanic Heritage Month is observed annually from Sept. 15 through Oct. 15 and recognizes the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans.
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Hispanic and Latino residents make up more than one-fifth of Montgomery County’s population. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s 2024 American Community Survey, 21.7% of County residents identify as Hispanic or Latino, reflecting communities with roots throughout Latin America and the Caribbean.
“More than one in five Montgomery County residents is Hispanic or Latino, and these communities have helped shape our County — from our neighborhoods and schools to our small businesses and culture,” said County Executive Marc Elrich. “You can see that clearly in Wheaton. This festival is a chance to celebrate that community, enjoy some great music and food, and recognize the many cultures and traditions that are part of Montgomery County.”
Wheaton’s restaurants, small businesses, and neighborhoods reflect the diversity of Montgomery County’s Latino community. The Unity Festival builds on that identity by bringing residents, businesses, community organizations, and County partners together in the heart of Wheaton to celebrate shared community while recognizing the distinct cultures and traditions represented throughout the County.
“The Hispanic Heritage Month Unity Festival is back in the heart of Wheaton! Join us as we come together to celebrate the richness of our culture,” said Council President Natali Fani-González. “Wheaton’s incredible diversity is reflected in its food, art, and vibrant local businesses, making it a great place to rejoice with orgullo in our Latino heritage.”
Festival highlights will include live music by Orquesta Manplesa, face painting, piñata making, and food from El Rey Chicken, Los Cobanos Restaurant, and Trippy Tacos. Community partners include Mid-County Regional Services Center, the Latino Economic Development Center, Montgomery College, and the Latino Health Initiative.
Although street parking is available around the venue, attendees are encouraged to use public transportation. The festival will be held adjacent to the Wheaton Metro station and is also accessible by Metrobus and Montgomery County Ride On bus service.
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Montgomery County will provide sign language interpreters and other auxiliary aids or services upon request. Requests should be made at least three business days before the event by calling 240-777-6197. Maryland Relay users may dial 711.
For additional information about the Wheaton Hispanic Heritage Month Unity Festival, visit the Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration or contact Naddia Clute at naddia.clute@montgomerycountymd.gov.
The festival will be held rain or shine. Participants are encouraged to share how they are celebrating culture, community, and unity in Wheaton on social media using the hashtag #WheatonUnity.
Read the original article at mcgov
