Each year, the United States observe National Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 through October 15, by celebrating the rich culture and contributions of those whose ancestors came from Latin America, Spain, and Caribbean. Starting in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson it later was expanded by President Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period. The day of September 15 is significant because it's the anniversary of independence for Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September18, respectively. Columbus Day or "Día de la Raza", which is October 12, falls within this 30-day period. With that being said, we've put together a quick guide on how you can celebrate this month in Lake Norman!
Supporting Local Restaurants
A tasty way to celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month is by visiting the area's locally-owned hispanic restaurants. In Cornelius, you have plenty of options to choose from. Get "street-style" tacos from Ositos Tacos & Tortas or enjoy delicious lunch specials at Sauza's. If you're strolling the streets of Davidson, you will come across Mestizo's right on Main Street and Carrburrito's on the southern end. Mestizo's offers a variety of authentic tequila-drink selections as well as Latin coffee, tea and tropical juices.
If you're craving authentic, Mexican tortas, consider stopping by Las Meras Tortas in Huntersville. Attached to a gas station, this eatery is a hidden gem! Besides tortas, they offer popusas, gorditas, tacos, and other popular street-food you would find in Mexico City. For a casual dining experience, consider Verde Mexican & Nuevo Latin Fusion. Led by Cuban-born Chef Rene Garcia Mayor, he brings a touch of his homeland flavors to the table. Equipped with a full bar, they offer drink specials ranging from $2 margs on Mondays and $5 mojitos on Fridays to $1 tacos on Tuesdays to half-off vino "wine" on Wednesdays. La Unica provides a comprehensive selection of vegetarian-friendly options including fajitas and chile poblanos.
Sabor Latin Street Grill has grown from just having 1 location in the Charlotte-Metro area to eleven including one in Huntersville and Davidson. Started by brother and sister Dalton and Miriam Espaillat, this establishment offers mouth-watering dishes originating from Colombia, Domican Republic, El Salvador, Mexico, and Venezuela. Taco Tuesday fans? Well then, enjoy $1 tacos on Tuesdays!
Special Events
Join the town of Huntersville at Veterans Park for una noche de fiesta y musica (a night of fun and music) at the second annual Huntersville Latino Night! Dance the night away on Friday, October 1 from 5-9pm with local bands ready to bring an entertaining night to your family and friends!
Featured bands include North Carolina Brazilian Arts Project, Son Poquitos and UltimaNota. Who knows you might pick up a new dance move or come out with a new favorite song! Rounding out the event, local food trucks and beverages will be available for purchase on site. A night of dancing and food? Count us in! Admission is free and open to all.
If you need weekend plans, a couple of the local breweries including Eleven Lakes and Primal Brewery will be hosting taco food trucks, Tacos Don Coyotl on October 1 and La Chulada on October 2. It's a great opportunity to enjoy some refreshing beer, listen to live music, and savor delicious food!
It's always important to recognize the contributions of various cultures. Almost 20% of hospitality workers claim Hispanic heritage meaning they play an integral role in the travel & tourism industry. We hope you have learned something new about how this celebrated month started and places you can support in Lake Norman. Let us know in the comments below or tag us on social media @VisitLakeNorman how you celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month!
