Mexican Independence Day in Los Angeles

Mexican Independence Day is not Cinco de Mayo, as most Americans believe; it is the 16th of September or Dieciseis de Septiembre. Five other Hispanic countries, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua, celebrate their independence on September 15, and September is also Latino Heritage Month, so there are plenty of reasons to celebrate all things Latino in LA in September. Here are some ways to join the party.

City of Los Angeles 2011 Latino Heritage Month Opening Ceremonies

The City of Los Angeles will honor the contributions of Placido Domingo, Tony Plana, and ASCO (collective group of Artists) at the kick off to the City's celebration of Latino Heritage Month. Music will be provided by Mario Reyes of the Gipsy Kings and the Mariachi Divas. The Argentina Tango Dancers will also perform. Arts and crafts for the kids and refreshments will also be available on the City Hall South Lawn.
When: Friday, Sept. 10, 2010, 10am-12pm (2011 info TBA)
Where: LA City Hall South Lawn, 200 North Spring Street, Los Angeles, CA
Cost: Free
Info: www.culturela.org, (213) 202-5500

Fiestas Patrias California on Olvera Street at El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument.

The annual celebration of Mexican Independence Day includes live music, dancing, carnival games and rides and exhibit booths.
When: Sept 10-11, & 17-18, 2011, 10 am - 10 pm, plus Sept 15, noon - 8 pm (tentative)
Where: Olvera Street Plaza, El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, Downtown LA
Cost: Free
Metro: Red Line to Union Station
Info: www.elpueblo.lacity.org

Mexican Independence Parade in East LA

Street parade at 10:30 am followed by a street festival on Mednik between Cesar E. Chavez and First from 11am-6pm. When: Sept 10, 2011, parade begins at 10:30 am
Where: Along Cesar Chavez Ave from Lorena to Mednik in East Los Angeles
Cost: Free
Info: www.cmcpla.com

Fiesta Patrias in Santa Ana

200,000 people show up to this street party on 4th Street in the heart of Santa Ana with top Latin performers.
When: Sept 17-18, 2011, 11 am - 10 pm, parade 4 pm Sunday
Where: 4th Street from Broadway to Minter, Santa Ana, CA
Cost: Free
Info: www.santa-ana.org

Latin American Parade & Festival in Long Beach

Latin food from various countries, art exhibits, vendor booths, salsa dance performances and lessons, live music and exhibitions for the whole family.
When: Sat Sept 10, 2011, parade at 3 pm, festival 3-9 pm
Where: Parade begins at 6th and Pine Ave in Downtown Long Beach and ends with festival at 1st and Elm.
Cost: Free
Info: http://www.downtownlongbeach.org

Aquarium of the Pacific Baja Splash Cultural Festival

The Aquarium’s festival celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month and features dance & music performances, bilingual environmental programs, arts & crafts, and more.
When: Sat-Sun Sept 24-25, 2011 9 am - 5 pm
Where: Aquarium of the Pacific, 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802
Cost: $24.95 Adult, $24.95 Senior (62+), $12.95 Child (3-11)
Info: www.aquariumofpacific.org, (562) 590-3100