Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the traditions, stories, and connections that bring families and communities together. This year, the Aurora Public Library District (APLD) invites you to a vibrant lineup of programs at the Santori Library filled with music, creativity, culture, and fun for all ages.
The centerpiece is our October 2 First Friday event ‘Celebrating Latino Heritage’ where we will highlight our Latino community’s rich contributions to Aurora. Attendees can get a preview of the stories collected for our Latino Legacies Oral History Project, which aims to document and preserve oral histories from Latino community members. These stories will help preserve the history in the Latino communities, build connection and cultural awareness. “It has been such a joy and very meaningful listening to the interviews we’ve conducted so far. I really can’t wait to share them!” said Genealogy and Community History librarian Cailin. In addition to the Latino Legacies, First Friday will have a performance by local Bolivian dance group, Renacer Boliviana, and a chance to see the Parade of Nations. This is a wonderful family friendly event that is all about showcasing community in Aurora.
Ahead of First Friday is another family favorite: ‘Lotería Night (¡Noche de Lotería!)’ is back Monday, Sept. 28 for all ages to gather and play the beloved game. “This is one of those programs that makes everyone smile,” said librarian Kathy. “Customers leave asking when the next one will be, and parents love being able to share the nostalgia of the game with their young children.”
Young artists can get creative with two programs in the Kiwanis Children’s Department. At ‘Heritage Through Color: The Art of Painted Tiles’ Thursday, Oct. 1, children will design ceramic tiles while learning about artistic patterns found throughout Mexico and Spain. Then at ‘Family Craft Night’ Wednesday, Oct. 14, participants will create a Mexican Talavera vase inspired by colorful Talavera pottery. These hands-on programs offer children and caregivers an opportunity to craft together while learning about beautiful aspects of Hispanic culture.
Music takes center stage Monday, Oct. 12 with a performance by Mariachi Sirenas, Chicago’s first all-women mariachi band. “Mariachi is a vibrant musical tradition with deep cultural significance, and featuring an all-women group gives us an opportunity to highlight the talent and contributions of women within that tradition,” said Early Literacy specialist Gretchen. Attendees will need to pick up a free ticket from the Kiwanis Children’s Department starting at 12:30 p.m. to experience the energy and excitement of this program.
Whether you’re enjoying music, crafting together, or gathering for a game of lotería, Hispanic Heritage Month at APLD is all about celebrating the traditions that connect generations. Join us as we honor culture and community through programs that are as colorful and welcoming as Aurora itself! For more information about our upcoming events, visit www.aurorapubliclibrary.org/events or contact us at 630-264-4117. Happy Hispanic Heritage Month!
Andrea Tiberi is the communications coordinator for the Aurora Public Library District.