Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated every year from September 15 through October 15 to acknowledge the culture, history and contributions of Hispanics and Latinos in the United States.
The observation dates back to 1968 under President Lyndon Johnson. It was later expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30 day period. It celebrates the anniversary of independence of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Mexico, Chile, and Belize also celebrate their independence days during this month long celebration.