Knoxville Celebrates Hispanic Heritage This September
This September, the city of Knoxville is gearing up for an exciting celebration of Hispanic and Latinx cultures. The festivities kick off with a variety of events that promise to bring the community together and highlight the rich traditions and contributions of Hispanic Heritage. Whether you are a part of this vibrant community or just looking to learn more, there are many opportunities to immerse yourself in the culture.
A Celebration of Culture
The primary event, the HoLa Hora Festival, is set to take place on September 21 in the stunning setting of World’s Fair Park. This year marks the festival’s 24th annual event, with organizers reflecting on its growth from humble beginnings as just a small table at a bookstore to a major celebration that now occupies multiple blocks in downtown Knoxville.
Pedro Tomas, who serves as president of the Hello Hola Latina’s Board of Directors, plays a vital role in organizing the festival. He emphasizes that this event is about more than just fun—it’s about building connections. “We’re creating bridges between the Hispanic community and the larger community of Knoxville,” says Tomas. “Everyone can see what makes us each special, but also what gives us common ground.”
What to Expect
The festival offers a full day of activities starting at 11 am. Attendees can look forward to traditional music, dance performances, delicious food, and cultural exchange booths where they can learn about various Hispanic traditions. This is an all-day event where families can enjoy together, with a parade of nations at 3 pm and a stunning fireworks display at 9 pm.
Art Exhibitions and Community Awards
Kicking off the month of celebration is the Frutos Latinos Art Exhibit, which opens on September 6. This one-night-only event features local Hispanic artists and their stunning works, allowing visitors to vote for their favorite piece. After this, the exhibit will move to the Knoxville Museum of Art on September 18, making it a must-see for art lovers.
Another highlight of the month is the annual 2024 Latino Awards taking place on September 19. Hosted by Centro Hispano and held at The Mill & Mine, this event honors individuals who are making significant contributions to the community. The evening will start with cocktails at 4:30 pm followed by a sit-down dinner at 6:00 pm. This is a great chance to recognize the hard work of community members while supporting numerous local causes.
More Opportunities and Engagement
Aside from these key events, September offers many chances for people to engage with Hispanic culture daily. Local businesses, restaurants, and community members will be hosting smaller events and activities that highlight their heritage. So whether you’re trying new foods, attending community gatherings, or learning about local history, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate.
This month of Hispanic Heritage is a wonderful opportunity for the people of Knoxville to come together, learn, and embrace the diverse cultures that enrich the community. With music, art, food, and celebration at the forefront, it’s clear that this is not just an event for the Hispanic community but for everyone who calls Knoxville home.
