It was 2021 when a new downtown event was launched to become a bright light in an otherwise dim world during the covid pandemic. At the time, it was the first outdoor, open-aired option for the community. Now in its fourth year, the City of Beaumont’s VIVA Beaumont Hispanic Heritage Festival returns Sunday, Sept. 15, from 3-8 p.m. on Main Street in downtown.
The date is significant. National Hispanic Heritage Month is Sept. 15-Oct. 15 and celebrates the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.
The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period starting on Sept. 15 and ending on Oct. 15. It was enacted into law on Aug. 17, 1988.
According to hispanicheritagemonth. gov, the day of Sept. 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua.
“This year’s VIVA Hispanic Heritage Fest promises to be our best yet,” said Emily Wheeler, the city’s director of event services. “This event is a wonderful opportunity for people of all backgrounds to come out and experience the vibrancy of Hispanic culture right here in Beaumont.”
The free festival features live musical entertainment from the likes of local groups Conjunto Lunada, Grupo Kinto Poder and Mariachi Proyecto. Come hungry. Nearly a dozen or so food trucks will satisfy your hunger needs with a diverse selection of food – Tacos el Primo, Antojitos La Huasteca Potosina, Taco Fire Mex, La Real Michoacana, Super Antojo Bakery, Homeplate, La Potoyes, Manny’s Melting Pop, Laura & Abe’s Ice Cream, Mandolada Michelada Mix, Mabel’s Snowcones and Mexican Treats. Those 21 years and older can enjoy adult beverages and micheladas for purchase.
A variety of family-friendly activities are planned throughout the day such as high-flying Lucha Libre professional wrestling as well as fun and games provided by the Houston Dynamo – the professional MLS soccer club in nearby Houston.
Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets for comfort. Please note that outside alcohol, tents/canopies, large umbrellas, pets, and cooking equipment are not permitted. Coolers and bags will be subject to search.
Beaumont Events/City of Beaumont hosts more than 500 events a year at six city-run venues and produces more than 70 city-sponsored events and festivals for the public. The city extends its gratitude to the event signature sponsor ExxonMobil, along with Telemundo, Giglio Distributing, Del Papa Distributing, and HEB, for their generous support and appreciates their continued commitment to the community, added Wheeler.
“We are so excited to see the community’s enthusiasm for VIVA Hispanic Heritage Fest,” she said. “It’s not just a celebration of heritage – it’s a celebration of unity, diversity, and the unique blend of cultures that make Beaumont a special place. We can’t wait to share this experience with everyone on Sept. 15.”
For detailed information, view beaumontevents.com.