Plaza de las Americas kicks off Hispanic Heritage Month

Plaza de las Americas will kick off the University of Arkansas' Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations tomorrow. The kick off celebration is from 4-7 p.m. tomorrow, Sept. 13 in the Arkansas Union Ballroom.

Plaza de las Americas will feature music, dancing, food and more in a celebration of Latin American and Spanish-speaking cultures in Arkansas. There will be booths representing various Latin American countries. The booths provide community members with an educational opportunity to learn about cultures south of the border.

Country Booths will be open from 4-5 p.m. Booth volunteers will share cultural items or photos to help attendees better visualize Latin countries. Attendees can also visit "tertulia" tables to have conversations and play games with fluent Spanish speakers. 

Music and performances will be held from 5-6 p.m., followed by a dance party Baile. During Baile, attendees will learn different types of Latin American dances. 

Plaza de las Americas has been a celebration of the Hispanic community in Northwest Arkansas since 2005. It is one of many Hispanic Heritage Month events taking place throughout the area.

Sponsors for Plaza de las Americas include: Latin American and Latino Studies, Department of World Languages, Literatures and Cultures, Center for Multicultural and Diversity Education, Office of International Students and International Students and Scholars, University Housing, Spring International Language Center, La Oficina Latina, New Student and Family Programs, University of Arkansas Hispanic Heritage Month Committee.