Orange County Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with Cultural Events

Orange County, FL – In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Hispanic Heritage Network of Orange County (HHNOC) and Orange County Government will hold a month-long series of cultural events to honor Orange County’s Hispanic community with the theme, “Unidos, Somos Más” (“Together, We Are More”). Duke Energy is the presenting sponsor of the 2026 Hispanic Heritage Month celebration.

“The contributions of our Hispanic and Latino communities have helped shape the character and spirit of Orange County,” said Mayor Jerry L. Demings. “Their heritage is woven into the story of who we are today. Together, we are building a community where every voice is valued, every culture is celebrated, and every person has the opportunity to thrive.”

“This year’s Hispanic Heritage Month theme, ‘Unidos Somos Más — Together We Are More,’ perfectly captures what our community is all about,” said Yetzenia Negron, President of the Hispanic Heritage Network of Orange County. “We have the power to create greater opportunities, inspire brighter futures, and build a stronger, more united community for generations to come.”

The celebration begins on September 15 at the regularly scheduled meeting of the Orange County Board of County Commissioners (BCC) where the BCC will officially proclaim September 15 – October 15 as Hispanic Heritage Month.

In addition, Innovation High School student, 16-year-old Oswaldo Bello Alcala, will be recognized with the Hispanic Youth Athlete Award and Scholarship for his outstanding achievements in soccer. Eight other Orange County students will receive the Hispanic Youth Leadership Award (HYLA), recognizing their commitment to leadership and service. The honorees, ages 13 to 19, are actively engaged in social justice initiatives, volunteer service, athletics, and visual arts.

Through October 22, the Orange County Administration Center will host a Hispanic Heritage Month Exhibit, celebrating the stories, cultures, traditions, and shared experiences of the Hispanic community.

A second exhibit is located at Gallery MCO on the third floor of Terminal B at Orlando International Airport. Hosted by the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, this exhibition will be in place through November 9.

Both exhibitions are free and open to the public.

To watch the September 15 BCC meeting remotely, tune into Orange TV which will carry the meeting live. Viewing options include Channel 488 on Spectrum, Channel 9 on Comcast, WSWF Channel 10.2 (over the air), stream live at www.ocfl.net/orangetv or view via the Orange TV app on ROKU in the Education category.