Hispanic Heritage Month (HHM) at Old Dominion University is a time to celebrate the rich cultural heritage, contributions and history of the Latine community. This year’s events, spanning from Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, feature a dynamic array of activities designed to engage students, faculty and the local community. Here’s a roundup of what’s happening during HHM:
HHM Kickoff – 12:-1:30 p.m., Sept. 16 on Kaufman Mall
The celebration begins with a lively event on Kaufman Mall, where various Latine organizations will set up information? tables for students to explore. There will be pizza, a piñata smash and interactive activities to kick off the month with excitement. Don’t miss the chance to grab your free HHM t-shirt!
LSA LoterÃa – 12:30-1:30 p.m., Sept. 17 in Constant Hall Room 1002
The is bringing a beloved tradition to campus during activity hour: LoterÃa! This fun, bingo-like game offers students the chance to win prizes while enjoying an integral part of Latine culture.
LSA Capture the Flag – All day event across campus, Sept. 18
Get ready for an adventurous game of Capture the Flag with a twist! LSA will hide Latine country flags across campus, and participants will embark on a campus-wide search. Prizes await those who track down the most flags!
WEPA Bachata Workshop – 7:30-8:30 p.m., Sept. 18 in the Student Recreation & Well-Being Center
Love to dance or want to learn? ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ WEPA will host a Bachata workshop for students to learn the basics of this popular Dominican dance style. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or a beginner, this is a chance to enjoy the rhythm and culture of bachata.
La Afro Fiesta: Celebrating Our Heritage and Future – 12:30-1:30 p.m., Sept. 19 in South Mall, Webb University Center
Hosted by the Office of Intercultural Relations (OIR) and the Women’s & Gender Equity Center (WGEC), La Afro Fiesta highlights the Afro-Latina diaspora. Through interactive activities, informational resources, and giveaways, this event is about honoring the past and celebrating the future of this vibrant community.
LSA Culture Workshop – 6-8 p.m., Sept. 20 in Constant Hall Room 1002
The LSA is also offering a culture workshop, where students can deepen their understanding of Latine heritage and traditions. Stay tuned for more details on this exciting educational opportunity.
HHM Café #1 – 12-1:30 p.m., Sept. 23 in Broderick Dining Commons
Taste the flavors of Latin America with the Broderick Dining Commons HHM Café series. The first installment features delicious Latine dishes like Media Noche Croquetas and Birria Tacos, allowing the campus community to savor the rich culinary traditions of the region.
RaÃces Week – Sept. 23-27, Mane Hubb, Webb University Center
will host RaÃces Week, offering a variety of events throughout the week that honor and reflect on Latine heritage, identity and roots. These events will focus on community-building and cultural pride.
SHPE LoterÃa & Crafts – 12:30-1:30 p.m., Sept. 24 in the Monarch Engineering & Innovation Lab
The is also joining the HHM celebrations with a LoterÃa and craft-making event. Students can unleash their creativity and engage in a fun afternoon of games and art during ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿â€™s activity hour.
Adelante – 5-8 p.m., Sept. 27 in North Café of Webb University Center
Adelante is OIR’s signature annual Latine celebration. Taking place in North Café, the event features food, a DJ, panelists, dancing and activities. It’s a lively gathering where the ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿ community can connect, learn and celebrate together.
Prideful Heritage: LGBTQ+ Latine Unity – 12:30-1:30 p.m., Oct. 1 in South Mall, Webb University Center
In collaboration with WGEC, OIR will host Prideful Heritage, an event celebrating the intersections of Latine identity, LGBTQ+ pride and womanhood. There will be interactive activities, informational resources and giveaways to honor and uplift these communities.
WEPA @ Barry Art Museum – 12:30-1 p.m., Oct. 3
Join WEPA for a special performance at the Barry Art Museum where the group will showcase traditional Latin dances. Following the performance, attendees can participate in an open, guided dance session—no experience necessary!
Poetry Reading & Open Mic – 8-10 p.m., Oct. 3 over Zoom
ºÚÁÏÕýÄÜÁ¿â€™s poetry night will feature readings from Ph.D. students Sabrina Lopez and Marcella Prokop, as well as acclaimed poet Ruben Quesada. After their performances, the mic will be open for anyone to share their own poetry, creating a space for self-expression and storytelling.
HHM Café #2 – 12-1:30 p.m., Oct. 8 in Broderick Dining Commons
In the second installment of the HHM Café series, the Broderick Dining Commons will serve up a new selection of Latine dishes, including feijoada, mofongo, esquites and tres leches cake. This is another delicious opportunity to explore the diverse flavors of Latin America.
Student Latin Night – 5-8 p.m., Oct. 10 in Mane Hub, Webb University Center
Closing out the festivities, Student Latin Night is a campus-wide celebration hosted by Latine student organizations and OIR. With music, games, prizes, food, and opportunities to connect, this event promises a memorable night of fun and unity.