Hispanic Heritage Month (HHM) is a time to celebrate the rich culture and amazing contributions of the Hispanic and Latino community. Observed annually from September 15 to October 15, HHM is celebrated both locally and nationwide across the United States. Costa Mesa, which translates to “coastal tableland” in Spanish, has a deep- rooted connection to Hispanic culture that dates back to the late 18th century when Spanish missionaries and soldiers first settled in the area. Today, the city celebrates its diverse community through food, art, and colorful cultural events that honor Hispanic traditions.
Read on for our favorite ways to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in Costa Mesa!
Food
Costa Mesa’s food scene is packed with bold Hispanic and Latin flavors. You can eat your way through Mexico at Mercado Gonzalez, a giant Mexican food market with over 20 puestos, or food stations, dishing out everything from tacos to churros, carnitas to ceviche, and so much more! Foodies should treat themselves to an upscale dining experience at Maizano and order their famous Encacahuatado, a grilled octopus dish complimented by a rich peanut red mole.
For a delicious twist on traditional Peruvian lomo saltado, start your culinary journey at Costa Contemporary Kitchen. Then, sip on award-winning margaritas at Playa Mesa before indulging in a flavorful four meat, Michelin recognized paella from Vaca. Coffee lovers (you know who you are) should swing by Hola Adios Coffee Shop for a caffeine fix and try their mouthwatering barbacoa burrito.
We could rave about the food all day, but we’ll let our restaurant list do the talking— check it out for all our top restaurants!
Art, Music, and Dance
Journey through California’s rich past by visiting the Diego Sepulveda Adobe museum. Located in Estancia Park, the adobe is one of Costa Mesa’s most historic sites showcasing nearly 200 years of local history. Originally a travel stop and later a ranch house, each room has been restored to showcase four key periods in Orange County history: Indian, Mission, Spanish, and Victorian. Visit on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the month to explore this historical hidden gem!
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month hands-on at ARTime Barro, a local Mexican-owned pottery studio in Costa Mesa. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, their workshops and classes cater to all skill levels. With a deep commitment to fostering creativity and community, ARTime Barro stands out as a must-visit destination. You’ll not only gain knowledge of ceramics but also take home a handcrafted keepsake from your visit.
Photo by Sevilla
Experience Southern California’s longest-running flamenco dinner at Sevilla OC! These shows offer a rich blend of visuals, sounds, and flavors that will transport you right to Spain. Enjoy a mouthwatering three-course paella dinner while being blown away by a stunning two-part Flamenco performance. These dancers, trained in Spain and masters of their craft, will truly mesmerize you with their powerful and soulful movements that channel centuries of tradition.
Special Events
Photo by Segerstrom Center for the Arts
September 14, 2024
Kick-off Hispanic Heritage Month with an evening of outdoor celebrations at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. This free, family-friendly event will feature live music, a traditional Bolivian dance performance, food trucks, free face painting, and so much more!
Descanso Don Julio Tequila Pairing Dinner
September 16, 2024
Celebrate Mexican Independence Day with a special four-course tequila-pairing dinner at Descanso. Don Julio Ambassador, Jeff Blakey, will guide you through a tasty menu featuring churros, passion fruit aguachile, tamales de pato, and hanger steak cooked right in front of you on a sizzling plancha. Each course is perfectly paired with premium tequila and concludes with a special gift.
Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration
September 27, 2025
Join the City of Costa Mesa at Lions Park for their 3nd Annual Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration from 10 am – 2 pm. Enjoy food, games, activities, DJ music along with special cultural performances.
OC Pride Parade and Festival at OC Fair and Event Center
September 27, 2025
Get ready—the OC Pride Festival & Parade is coming back to the OC Fair & Event Center! This is Orange County’s official Pride celebration, bringing glitter, music, rainbows, and all the love. Enjoy an exciting lineup of Spanish and English performers, plus diverse programming—from Teen Pride to Pride Family Camp, and explore over 150 LGBTQIA+ and ally-owned vendors. Get your tickets before they sell out!
Photo by Segerstrom Center for the Arts
October 11 – 12, 2025
Experience an evening with Sonia De Los Santos. Born in Monterrey, Mexico, has been performing in Spanish and English since 2007. Her joyful songs—often inspired by Latin American rhythms like huapango, cumbia, salsa, and festejo, as well as North American folk traditions—celebrate themes of childhood, friendship, and her journey from Mexico to New York.
Costa Mesa offers plenty of ways to honor Hispanic Heritage Month, from discovering new restaurants and flavors, to exploring local history, and being part of cultural events and performances. For a complete experience, book an overnight stay at one of Costa Mesa’s hotels and make it a fun getaway!
