Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month in the City of Alexandria

Page updated on December 11, 2023 at 8:58 AM
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The City of Alexandria is observing Hispanic Heritage Month, a nationwide celebration, through Sunday, October 15.

We invite you to participate in Hispanic Heritage events and photo opportunities throughout the month, hear stories from Latino/x* community members, and learn more about Hispanic and Latino/x businesses in Alexandria.

Attend an Upcoming Hispanic Heritage City Event

Immerse yourself in our city’s Hispanic and Latino/a/x community at festivities that will have you ready to dance, sing, and rejoice with your fellow Alexandrians. Check out the events we have planned for the month.

HHM Market Square Flags

Enjoy National Flags and Lights of Latin American Countries

During Hispanic Heritage month, flags representing more than 20 Latin American nations will be displayed at City Hall Market Square (301 King St.).

In the evenings, the national colors of Latin American countries will light up City Hall. It’s a perfect setting to take a charming picture with friends and family.

Listen to Alexandria’s Latino/x Oral Histories

Each week this month, the Office of Historic Alexandria is sharing a story from our city’s Latino/x community.

Miguel Blancas, originally from Mexico, came to Northern Virginia after meeting his wife in Spain during a study-abroad program. He began working for the City of Alexandria in the Court Service Unit, supported the Emergency Operations Center during the COVID-19 pandemic, and currently serves as a project manager in the Department of Project Implementation. Listen to Miguel’s story.

Priscila Izar was born in São Paolo, Brazil. She has lived in Alexandria with her husband and daughters for several years. She reflects on growing up in Brazil, receiving her degrees in urban planning, and living in Alexandria. Listen to Priscila’s story.

Learn About Latino/x Businesses in Alexandria

Our Latino/x community is a key part of Alexandria's story, and a historic driver for economic growth. Learn more about Latino/x-owned small businesses in your backyard.

This month, Wilfred Lopez and his family opened their doors for a behind-the-scenes look at Best Foot Forward—Shoe and Leather Care (3686 King St.).

Owned by Lopez, Best Foot Forward is an award-winning, family-run operation. Having recently moved to Alexandria from Washington, D.C., his store features a suite of services from shoe repair to restoring vintage jackets, fur coats, and handbags. View the full photo gallery.

Best Foot Forward family business

Visit alexandriava.gov/HispanicHeritage for more information on the schedule of events, City Hall lights, and Hispanic Heritage in Alexandria.

If you prefer communication in another language, free interpretation and translation services are available to you, please email newsroom@alexandriava.gov or call 703.746.3960.

* The terms 'Hispanic' and 'Latino/a/x' are used interchangeably to describe individuals who identify with or relate to Spanish and Latin American origin or descent.