Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15- October 15 in our city. Hampton is a diverse city made up of residents and visitors from all walks of life including various Hispanic communities. According to the Virginia Hispanic Chamber, Hispanics/Latinos are the fastest-growing ethnic group in the U.S. and play a major role in shaping our economy and society, making up 18.7 percent of the U.S. population. 

Explore Hispanic culture in Hampton below: 

Excite your taste buds

•  Juan’s is a family-owned and operated restaurant featuring authentic Mexican dishes, many of them beloved recipes handed down through relatives from Mexico. This amazing restaurant also hosts Hispanic-themed events like their Fiesta Drag Brunch, taking place October 14 (entry is 18+ and strictly enforced). 
• El coqui food truck serves up deliciously filled Puerto Rican Empanadas (Empanadillas, Pastelillos) and delights. 
• Mezcal is a locally-owned restaurant and has the purest flavor of this culture and you can enjoy a variety of dishes that you can order with your favorite ingredient.
• La Parilla Mexican Grill is a group of restaurants specializing in Mexican food, preserving Mexican traditions and all the original gastronomy of Mexico.
• Los Compadres Taqueria & Marsqueria is an authentic Mexican restaurant that offers a variety of authentic Mexican cuisine.

Find titles by Hispanic authors

• See Which Books is a niche independent bookstore in Phoebus with a focus on underrepresented authors, neurodiversity, and children’s books. Located at 15 S Hope St, Hampton, VA 23663. Check out Hispanic-themed events on their Facebook page. 
• Dog Eared Books is a locally owned, used bookstore in Downtown Hampton selling gently used books for all ages. Located at 52 Old Hampton Ln Suite C, Hampton, VA 23669.

Both these bookstores are treasure troves of novels by Hispanic authors. During your next visit, be sure to ask a friendly associate about Hispanic Heritage Month events and information. 

Events:

• Celebrate Dia De Los Muertos at the Charles H. Taylor Visual Arts Center October 28 at 11 a.m. El Dia De Los Muertos: Day of the Dead is held in remembrance of family members and friends who’ve passed away. This holiday originates from the ancient indigenous peoples of Mexico. This free family-friendly event will include food, arts and crafts, and costume contests.
• Celebrate Hispanic heritage year-round with Cinco De Mayo celebrations taking place at various restaurants and bars. Hispanic performers, athletes, and artists are represented at local city concerts at the Hampton Coliseum, the Mosaic Festival, theaters such as the American Theatre, and various sporting events at our many sports venues.  

Grupo Ritmo Son performing at Hampton’s Mosaic Festival 2023.

Resources

• The Virginia Hispanic Chamber plays a role in over 150 events throughout the year created to promote growth, visibility, and credibility for members and Hispanic businesses.  
• The Hispanic Chamber of Coastal Virginia supports Hispanic businesses throughout the region by offering guidance, networking opportunities, and more.