SESLOC is celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15 and the important contributions Hispanics and Latinos make to strengthen our community. To join in the celebration, check out some festive local celebrations planned for 2026:
SESLOC Downtown Fridays Santa Maria
• Date: Every Friday, Until September 26, 2026
• Location: Santa Maria Town Center West
• Time: 5:30-8:30 p.m.
• Activities: Celebrate community spirit and cultural diversity during Hispanic Heritage Month at SESLOC Downtown Fridays. Enjoy dishes from across the Hispanic spectrum, unique treasures at the vendor booths, Lotería, kid activities and live entertainment in both Spanish and English.
Join us on Friday, September 18, 2026 for a special Hispanic Heritage Month celebration featuring Banda Real and the SESLOC Unidos in Community Awards presentation, honoring Hispanic leaders who strengthen and unite our community.
Paso Robles 5th Annual Hispanic Heritage Festival
• Date: Sunday, September 13, 2026
• Location: Downtown City Park
• Time: 2:00-9:00 p.m.
• Activities: This year’s event celebrates all Hispanic countries in South and Central America, highlighting their food, traditions, and customs. Enjoy the music and dancing across the spectrum of Hispanic communities, including Mariachi, Baile, El Grito, Grupo Norteño, and Folklorico Dances.
Hispanic Heritage Month at The Palm Theatre
• Date: Sunday, September 20 and 27, 2026
• Location: The Palm Theatre
• Time: 7:00 p.m. each night
• Activities: Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with two bold visions of Mexican cinema: A 25th anniversary screening of Amores Perros on September 20, 2026, and The Holy Mountain on September 27, 2026.
Paso Robles Dia de los Muertos Festival
• Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026
• Location: Paso Downtown City Park, 12th Street Paso Robles, CA 93446
• Time: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
• Activities: This traditional Mexican holiday honors loved ones who have passed and blends ancient Aztec rituals with Catholic traditions to celebrate both life and remembrance. The event will feature educational and children’s activities, live music and dance, delicious food, cultural vendors, and beautifully crafted ofrendas (altars) honoring the departed.
San Luis Obispo Festival Dia de los Muertos
• Date: Saturday, October 31, 2026
• Location: Mission Plaza, San Luis Obispo
• Time: 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
• Activities: Enjoy a celebration of Dia de los Muertos featuring dancers, mariachis, costume contest, face-painting, Latin dance, food, vendors and more.
Santa Maria Valley Chamber Hispanic Mega Mixer
• Date: Friday, October 9, 2026
• Location: Santa Maria Public Airport
• Time: 5:00-7:00 p.m.
• Activities: This free community event will bring together local businesses, organizations, community leaders, and residents for an evening of networking, cultural celebration, and meaningful connections. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore exhibitor booths, learn about local resources and services, enjoy complimentary bites, and connect with fellow community members from throughout the Santa Maria Valley.
Hispanic Heritage Month is an important time to recognize and celebrate the rich cultural contributions of Hispanics and Latinos in our communities. These local celebrations sound like great ways to honor and enjoy this cultural heritage. Please be sure to check for any updates or additional details regarding these events as the dates approach, as there may be changes or additional activities planned.
Enjoy the celebrations!