The observance of Hispanic Heritage Month started Friday, Sept. 15, and runs through Sunday, Oct. 15 — spotlighting the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic Americans with roots in Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central, and South America.

Sept. 15 coincides with the date when five Latin American countries declared independence from Spain in 1821 — Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexican Independence Day is Sept. 16, while Chile’s is today, Sept. 18.

Keep tabs on DanzTrad's Facebook page to catch a traditional Mexican dance performance. | Video by 608today

Here’s a sampling of some free celebrations and events coming up in the 608:

Tuesday, Sept. 19 | Candles and Culture
Red Gym, 716 Langdon St. | 5:30 p.m.
Geared toward Latine UW-Madison students, this hands-on event will highlight the historical significance of candlemaking in Latin culture. Attendees will get to create, decorate, and take home their own candle and cazuela.

Thursday, Sept. 28 | Hispanic Heritage Celebration
Madison Children's Museum, 100 N. Hamilton St. |4-8 p.m.
Museum admission is free during this family-friendly celebration which includes a sugar skull crafting lesson with the Mariposa Learning Center. Live performances by Waritas de Bolivia, Ballet Folklórico de Maria Diaz, and Angela Puerta will run from 5:45 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Mariposa Learning Center will walk kids through the art of sugar skull making. | Photo by Mariposa Learning Center

Thursday, Oct. 5 | Queer Brown Vegan
Play Circle Theater at Memorial Union, 800 Langdon St. | 7 p,m.
Climate educator, researcher, and activist Isaias Hernandez will speak about intersectionality and how it relates to climate conversations.

Saturday, Oct. 7 | LOUD Celebration
Rotunda Stage at Overture Center, 201 State St. | 5:30-6:30 p.m.
Join Latinos Organizing for Understanding and Development (LOUD) for an exhibition of local Hispanic artists crafting portraits of local Latino leaders. Catch live music performances indoors and outdoors during the event.