Oakland to celebrate Hispanic heritage

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, the town of Oakland and the Healthy West Orange Arts & Heritage Center are planning an exciting series of events to celebrate the diverse culture, traditions and contributions of the Hispanic community. The monthlong celebration offers a variety of events that highlight Hispanic art, history and musical talent.

LA FLORIDA: CELEBRATING FLORIDA’S HISPANIC HERITAGE

The celebration starts with “La Florida: Celebrating Florida’s Hispanic Heritage,” an art and history exhibit at the Healthy West Orange Arts & Heritage Center. Soluna Tacos will be serving fresh Birria-style tacos, and Oakland General will feature sweet treats with a Hispanic flair.

The public is invited to the exhibition’s opening reception from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 15, at the center, 126 W. Petris Ave., Oakland. Guests will have the opportunity to view Hispanic-influenced art and learn about the origin of Spanish Florida more than 500 years ago.

HAPCO is presenting Guillermo Hernandez Barrocal, an up-and-coming piano prodigy from Spain, who will perform jazz and classical music.

The “La Florida” exhibition will run through Nov. 18.

MUSIC UNDER THE OAKS

The celebration continues into October with Music Under the Oaks from 5 to 9 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 7, in VanderLey Park, 117 E Gulley Ave., Oakland.

This free outdoor music event also will offer Latin food vendors, artisan craft booths coordinated by Orange Blossom Market, and wine and beer by West Orange Creamery.

The evening will feature the Cuban American Trio, presented by HAPCO, playing modern jazz. Latin Grammy-nominated pianist Martin Bejerano fronts this internationally acclaimed trio, accompanied by renowned Cuban drummer Ludwig Afonso and Grammy-nominated New York City bassist Edward Pérez.

Food trucks offering traditional Latin foods will be on site serving fresh empanadas, croquettes, and Cuban sandwiches.

Enjoy a cold beer and wine available for purchase from the West Orange Creamery. Shop at artisan craft vendor booths selling fine art, handmade crafts and merchandise.