Tuesday, September 10, 2024 Seattle celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, immersing the city in a festive atmosphere with exciting events, tantalizing cuisine, and unique shopping opportunities that highlight the rich cultural contributions of its Hispanic residents. With a vibrant Hispanic population that enriches various neighborhoods and suburbs, Seattle’s Hispanic community significantly shapes the city’s cultural landscape. Representing 13% of Washington’s population, this figure jumps to nearly 30% in some Seattle areas.
Neighborhoods like South Park and White Center are cultural hotspots, bustling with authentic eateries, boutiques, and landmarks. Visitors can enjoy exploring vivid murals, savoring exquisite dishes, and uncovering the history behind significant sites, offering a deep dive into the cultural wealth that Seattle boasts. Highlighted below are two notable Hispanic-owned establishments in Seattle: Opened by Luis Rodriguez and Leona Moore-Rodriguez in 2010, The Station Coffee Shop in Beacon Hill epitomizes community spirit.
Its popularity led to the opening of a second location in Columbia City in April 2024, further cementing its status as a key community hub. Celebrating its 60th anniversary, Copacabana has been a fixture in Pike Place Market since 1964. This Bolivian restaurant, managed by the Peláez family across five generations, continues to delight patrons with its traditional offerings.
“Growing up in Baja California, Mexico, my father used to give us kids café con leche and that’s where my love of coffee began,” said Luis Rodriguez , The Station Coffee Shop CEO. “To me, coffee represents my father, and it represents my culture. Seattle is a welcoming city, and I’ve been able to make strong connections with other coffee entrepreneurs here over the years.
I hope to one day leave a legacy for my kids, and I’m grateful for the community in Seattle that has contributed to my legacy.” These establishments, along with other Hispanic-owned businesses, were recently spotlighted in the Travel With Meaning podcast series, which delves into Seattle’s eclectic business scene. The series, co-hosted by Mike Schibel and Latina travel journalist Jeannette Ceja, includes a forthcoming Spanish-language episode, enhancing its reach within the Hispanic community.
“As one of the first South American restaurants in Seattle, we have been able to share our family’s Bolivian food and culture with the world for the past six decades,” said Vivian Morrow , who is part of the Peláez family that owns and operates Copacabana. “We love exposing visitors and locals to South American cuisine, bridging communities, and uniting the world through our food and family history.” The city’s Hispanic artists are also making their mark through the Office of Arts & Culture’s Hope Corps Downtown Seattle Mural Project.
This initiative, part of Mayor Harrell’s Downtown Activation Plan and supported by several local organizations, showcases the artistic talents of the Hispanic community, contributing vibrant murals to Seattle’s urban fabric. Events and Activities: Explore and engage with Seattle’s Hispanic community during this month and beyond through a series of engaging events: MEXAM NW Festival 2024 – Delve into the vibrant Hispanic and Mexican-American cultures at the MEXAM NW Festival. The festivities stretch from September 7 to October 19, spanning multiple venues to bridge communities together.
Sea Mar Fiestas Patrias – Immerse yourself in the Hispanic heritage celebration at the Fiestas Patrias, held on September 14 and 15. This no-cost event honors Latin American countries’ independence with a parade in South Park, followed by a weekend full of music, dance, food, and more at the Seattle Center. Seattle Mariners Hispanic Heritage Day – Enjoy a day of baseball at T-Mobile Park on September 15, celebrating Hispanic influence in sports.
Each ticket includes a special Hispanic heritage T-shirt and contributes to Casa Latina, supporting local communities. Casa Latina Rhythms of Resilience – Support Casa Latina’s 30th anniversary on September 21, celebrating decades of community service with an inspiring evening of stories and achievements. Building the Beloved Community Gala – Support El Centro de la Raza’s vital programs by joining their gala on September 28, an event aiding over 20,000 people across various services.
Seattle Latino Film Festival – Experience authentic Latin American cinema at the 16th Seattle Latino Film Festival, from October 4 to 12, promoting cultural diversity through film. Music and Dance: Los Ángeles Azules – Catch the El Amor de Mi Vida USA Tour 2024 featuring Los Ángeles Azules from September 21-24 at the WAMU Theater. Bailadores de Bronce – Witness traditional Mexican folk-dance performances by Bailadores de Bronce.
Check their Facebook for upcoming shows. Bahia in Motion – Experience the vibrancy of Afro-Brazilian dance and Capoeira at Bahia in Motion’s studio in Fremont. Drop Zone Dance – Engage with Latin dance culture through classes offered by skilled dancers and instructors.
Salsa con Todo – Spice up your dance skills with classes in Salsa, Bachata, and more at Salsa con Todo in Fremont. Places to Shop: booSH Plant Nursery – Discover a variety of indoor plants in the Central District community space. Capitol Thrill – Explore unique gifts, apparel, and art curated by Jeff Gonzales in Capitol Hill.
Neplanta Cultural Arts Gallery – This cultural hub on the West Seattle and White Center border offers a diverse range of apparel, jewelry, and artisan gifts. Rey Amargo – Taste the rich flavors of 100% authentic Mexican cacao at Rey Amargo in Capitol Hill. Sal Floral Design – Admire and purchase stunning floral arrangements from Sal Amezquita in downtown Seattle.
Places to Eat: Askatu Bakery – Visit Belltown’s Askatu Bakery for delicious allergen-free treats crafted by Estela Martinez. Arepa Venezuelan Kitchen – Savor traditional arepas at Felix Valderrama and Ismary Herrera’s spot in the University District. Baja Bistro – Enjoy Baja California flavors with dishes like fish tacos and enchiladas in Beacon Hill.
Carmelo’s Tacos – Experience Mexico City-style tacos in Capitol Hill and the Central District. Citizen Collective – Relax in this Queen Anne café and beer garden, welcoming both coffee lovers and dogs. DOCE Donut Co.
– Indulge in craft donuts with a Latin twist at their Fremont-Wallingford and South Lake Union locations. Fogón Cocina Mexicana – Known for homemade tortillas and delicious cocktails, this family-owned spot is a must-visit in Capitol Hill. Frelard Tamales – Check out their new Fremont location featuring El Sueñito Brewing, a delightful combination brought to you by Osbaldo Hernandez and Denny Ramey.
La Carta de Oaxaca – Taste traditional Oaxacan dishes by head chef Gloria Perez in Ballard, and explore El Mezcalito in Queen Anne. Maíz – Experience authentic Mexican street food at Maíz, dedicated to preserving heirloom corn across three Seattle locations..
