National Hispanic Heritage Month (Sept. 15–Oct. 15, 2026) is quickly approaching, and there are so many ways to celebrate right here in Dutchess County! Experience the centuries-old Hispanic traditions and customs, the vibrant, colorful artwork, and the savory, authentic flavors. Examine the important events that have shaped Hispanic history and the Spanish language that serves as a common thread in a proud multicultural tapestry.
Here is a list of some Dutchess events and attractions you don't want to miss. Be sure to take lots of photos, and feel free to share them here or by tagging @DestinationDutchess on social media.
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The Hudson Valley Renegades baseball team, a Class-A affiliate of the New York Yankees, embrace Hispanic culture every season as part of the "Copa de la Diversión" ("Fun Cup") program throughout minor league baseball. In true "Lucha Libre" style, the Renegades take the field for several South Atlantic League games each season as the "Fenomenos Enmascarados del Valle de Hudson" ("Masked Phenoms of the Hudson Valley"). The Masked Phenoms' mascot, Bribón Bandolero, is a competitor in the Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre, the premier league in Mexican Lucha Libre wrestling. Bribón provides fans a blend of fighting spirit and showmanship at the ballpark. Season tickets for the 2027 season are available. Check out the 2027 season schedule.
Every year, DCC in Poughkeepsie hosts a series of public events that celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in September and October. Events include an art workshop centered around Mexico’s Taller de Grafica Popular Movement (Sept. 22); an Afrokorp dance workshop with dancer/choreographer Argelia Arreola (Sept. 24); a reading and conversation with poet Benjamin Garcia (Oct. 15); and a musical performance by Los Guachinangos, a band with Mexican roots that brings a unique sound, combining both musical and dance styles from son jarocho, cumbia, champeta, rancheras, and other rhythms from Latin America. Dancing is encouraged — and perhaps unavoidable (Oct. 29). Click here for details.
Related: Top 10 Places to View Fall Foliage
Every summer at Waryas Park, Poughkeepsie
A high point of every summer in Poughkeepsie is the La Guelaguetza festival, a day-long celebration featuring traditional Oaxacan dances and costumes, artwork, crafts, live music, kids' activities and a whole lot of authentic Oaxacan food! Click here for updates.
What is a celebration without food?! Here are some of our top authentic restaurants you absolutely must try!
Hailing from the state of Oaxaca — the food capital of Mexico — La Cabanita: Cocina de Oaxaca in Poughkeepsie has been serving authentic Mexican cuisine right here in the Hudson Valley since 2003. Staying true to tradition, la familia Pinelo-Cardenas captures a unique part of Oaxaca in each plate by using traditional slow-roasting techniques with only fresh herbs and spices. Bring your family and friends and try one of their delicious dishes made fresh from the griddle or a specialty cocktail! After a big plate of savory Oaxacan goodness, head over to El Chapulin Colorado in Poughkeepsie for authentic Mexican desserts. Choose from fresh fruit salads drizzled with chamoy (a spicy, honey-like sauce) or a pina loca, which is a whole pineapple stuffed with chunks of fruit!
For the perfect empanada or dessert to go with a hot cup of coffee, visit Los Hornitos Bakery and Restaurant, a warm and welcoming Chilean shop in Wappingers Falls. Named after the famous Chilean restaurant where owners Hector and Monica first met, Los Hornitos pays tribute to their roots and nostalgic memories. Freshly baked bread and custom cakes are also available.
"Bringing visitors La Isla Del Encanto (The Island of Enchantment) Inland One Dish At A Time," Cafe Con Leche is a family-owned and operated, authentic Puerto Rican eatery in Wappingers Falls. Chefs/owners Phil and Melodie serve up traditional plates from mofongo, pastelillos and pernil to new American concoctions like coquito latte and iced Bustelo coffee. One trip is not enough! Cafe con Leche was recently awarded Hudson Valley Magazine’s "Best of the Hudson Valley for Latin Cuisine and Best Caribbean Cuisine!"
While in the area, quench your thirst at Casa Ortega in Wappingers Falls. A must-try is the refreshing Paloma made with tequila, grapefruit liqueur, freshly squeezed grapefruit, lime and passionfruit juice. If you want a bit of a kick, try the Kiwita made with vodka, peach liqueur, homemade kiwi marmalade and lime juice and served in a chili-powder-rimmed glass. This family-owned also specializes in modern and traditional Mexican cuisine, as chef Fermin Ortega cooks up lunch and dinner, as well as brunch on Saturdays and Sundays.
If you’re hungry for more Puerto Rican flavors with a perfect balance of savory and sweet, stop by Izla in Fishkill. This casual dining restaurant offers made-to-order food with complex flavors but no processed ingredients. They strive to create dishes that have a feels-like-home taste using traditional preparation methods rooted in Caribbean and Spanish cuisine.
The Coyote Flaco Mexican Bistro in Stanfordville offers a host of savory options for lunch and dinner, including a variety of fajita dishes for every palate (veggies, chicken, steak, shrimp and salmon) and plenty of grilled chicken and steak entrees.
For bold, authentic Dominican flavors, be sure to visit El Dominicano Restaurant in Hopewell Junction. Their savory stews and hearty classics are guaranteed to "bring comfort, flavor, and satisfaction." ¡Muy delicioso!
Keep in mind that each restaurant has its own business hours and some are closed on certain days. Be sure to check ahead!
