Hispanic Heritage is very interesting in many ways. During Hispanic Heritage Month we celebrate our heritage and our culture. Hispanic cultures are very different and unique. Whether it’s Columbian, Mexican, Spanish, or Puerto Rican, Hispanics take much pride in their culture and where they come from. This is a time when people with common beginnings, traditions, or language come together to celebrate their similarities and their differences.

People show their Hispanic culture with art, music, and food. Hispanics also share similar traditions such as The Day of the Dead, the celebration of Quinceañeros, Christmas traditions such as re-enactments of the birth of Jesus, Christmas eve dinners, midnight mass, and villancicos o aguinaldos (Christmas carols). These car4ols differ depending on the country. Different countries have different folk songs to celebrate Christmas.

Religion also plays a very important role in the day to day lives of Hispanics everywhere. Ninety percent of Spanish speakers are part of the Roman Catholic Church. There are also several holidays that are reserved. The main religious holiday that is reserved is “La Semana Santa’’ or Holy week is observed for seven days in that week. There are masses, prayers, parades, and many religious services held isn preparation for Jesus’ birth. Another time that Hispanics unite to share their religious beliefs is in times of mourning and death. They hold church services, visitations, rosaries, and they are very dedicated to helping one another.