Kutztown University Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month 2025

KUTZTOWN, Pa. – Kutztown University celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month Sept. 15 to Oct. 15. This national, month-long celebration recognizes the diversity of the Hispanic/Latino/x/e culture and commemorates the achievements, contributions and histories of American citizens who have ancestry from Mexico, Spain, Central and South America and the Caribbean.

The observation began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period. It was enacted into law Aug. 17, 1988.

Kutztown University acknowledges the celebration of cultural heritage year-round but loves to spotlight and honor its unique beauty. KU appreciates National Hispanic Heritage Month as an important reminder to honor the past and present influence Hispanic/Latino/x/e culture has on the university and around the country. During the month-long celebration, the university hosts a variety of events.

KU will kick off the festivities Friday, Sept. 12, at the Reading Fightin’ Phils Latinx night. The event begins at 6:45 p.m. and free tickets will be offered at the Multicultural Center. Learn more about KU Multicultural Center events their website or by contacting 610-683-4807 or multicultural@kutztown.edu.

Read Rohrbach Library’s blogpost that offers Latino Heritage resources online.

Reading Fightin’ Phils Latinx Night
Friday, Sept. 12
6:45 p.m.
Reading, Pa.

Join us for Latinx Night with the Reading Fightin’ Phils. This special evening will highlight Latinx culture and community while enjoying America’s favorite pastime.

Bienvenidos
Monday, Sept. 15
11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Multicultural Center Unity Room

Celebrate the start of Hispanic Heritage Month at our Bienvenidos event. Enjoy food, music and community as we honor Latinx culture and traditions.

Dominoes Tournament
Tuesday, Sept. 16
5-8 p.m.
Multicultural Center

Participate in a friendly dominoes tournament and connect with others in the community. All skill levels are welcome.

Movie Watch Party and Costume Contest
Thursday, Sept. 18
6-7 p.m.
Multicultural Center

Join us for a Latinx-inspired film screening paired with a festive costume contest. Participants are encouraged to dress up, with prizes awarded for creativity.

Piragua Shaved Ice
Tuesday, Sept. 23
11a.m. to 1 p.m.
Multicultural Center

Stop by the Multicultural Center to enjoy piraguas, a traditional Puerto Rican shaved ice treat and learn more about its cultural significance.

Recipe Swap
Thursday, Oct. 1
6-8 p.m.
Multicultural Center

Share your favorite recipes and exchange cultural dishes with others. This event is an opportunity to celebrate the diversity of Latinx cuisine.

"Let’s Talk About Hair”
Tuesday, Oct. 7
11a.m. to 1 p.m.
Multicultural Center

Engage in an open discussion on the significance of hair in Latinx culture and identity. This event invites reflection and conversation in a welcoming space.

Salsa Dance Lessons
Thursday, Oct. 9
6:30-8:30 p.m.
Multicultural Center

Experience the energy of salsa through guided dance lessons. Participants will learn basic steps and the cultural importance of salsa in Latinx communities.

Dr. Sotomayor Poetry and Spoken Word Night
Tuesday, Oct. 14
6-8 p.m.
Multicultural Center

Join us for an evening with Dr. Sotomayor, featuring poetry and spoken word that explore themes of identity, heritage and community.