Hispanic Heritage events in Southwest Florida offer a vibrant celebration of culture, music, and history, while the best Hispanic restaurants in Southwest Florida showcase the rich flavors of Latin America. From food festivals and dance parties to honoring cultural icons, this guide highlights must-attend events and the top Latin American dining spots in the region. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these celebrations of Hispanic culture provide an excellent opportunity to enjoy the diversity of Southwest Florida’s Hispanic community.

With a variety of Hispanic Heritage events in Southwest Florida, you can immerse yourself in the lively rhythms of salsa, taste authentic Latin American cuisine, and explore the heritage of countries like Mexico, Guatemala, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic. Along with attending events like the Taste of Latino Festival and Latin dance parties, you can savor traditional dishes at the best Hispanic restaurants in Southwest Florida. Let’s dive into the key events and culinary experiences that will make this year’s Hispanic Heritage Month one to remember.

Taste of Latino Festival

Date: Saturday, October 12, 2024
Location: Centennial Park, Fort Myers

One of the largest Hispanic Heritage events in Southwest Florida, the Taste of Latino Festival celebrates Hispanic heritage through food, music, and dance. Held in downtown Fort Myers at Centennial Park, this free family event runs from noon to 6 p.m. and offers a lively atmosphere where you can enjoy live Latin music and performances in the park. Don’t forget to bring a lawn chair or blanket to fully enjoy the entertainment lineup. Alongside the music and dance, the festival’s food offerings are the main highlight. From Cuban sandwiches to tacos, attendees can indulge in authentic Latin American dishes, with the popular Great Empanada Smackdown as one of the culinary highlights of the event.

Address: 2000 W First St, Fort Myers, FL 33901
Website: tasteoflatino.com

Latin Dance Party at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center

Date: Various dates during Hispanic Heritage Month
Location: Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, Fort Myers

If you love Latin music and dancing, the Latin Dance Party at Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center is the perfect way to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. These rooftop salsa parties offer free dance lessons for beginners and a chance to dance the night away under the stars. With live DJs spinning salsa, bachata, and merengue, this event is one of the best ways to feel the rhythms of Latin America. Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, the center will also host other Latin-inspired events, making it a hub for cultural celebration in downtown Fort Myers.

Address: 2301 First St, Fort Myers, FL 33901
Website: sbdac.com

¡Arte Viva! Festival

This yearlong celebration of Hispanic culture starts during Hispanic Heritage Month and extends until June 2025. Organized by multiple local institutions, this festival includes a variety of events such as art exhibitions, musical performances, and educational activities. It’s a great opportunity to engage with the arts and traditions of the Hispanic community.

• Dates: October 19, 2024 – June 29, 2025
• Location: Various venues in Naples, including Artis—Naples and Marco Island Center for the Arts.
• Website: Arte Viva Festival

Hispanic Heritage Celebration at Naples Botanical Garden

On October 30, 2024, this event brings together the local Hispanic community and supporters for an evening of food, music, and cultural connections. Hosted in the beautiful setting of the Naples Botanical Garden, it’s a festive celebration perfect for networking and community-building. Complimentary admission when you register here.

• Date: October 30, 2024
• Location: Naples Botanical Garden, Kapnick Hall
• Website: Event Page

Latin Legends: Selena and Shakira Tribute

Date: Saturday, October 5, 4 2024
Location: Seminole Casino Hotel, Immokalee

Celebrate two of Latin music’s biggest icons at the Latin Legends: Selena and Shakira Tribute at Seminole Casino Hotel in Immokalee. Featuring performances by Nira Perez as Selena and Sunny Haymes as Shakira, this live tribute concert honors the music and legacy of these incredible artists. Fans of Tejano and Latin pop music will love dancing along to hits like “Como la Flor” and “Hips Don’t Lie” during this high-energy celebration of Latin culture.

Address: 506 S 1st St, Immokalee, FL 34142
Website: seminoleimmokaleecasino.com

Best Hispanic Restaurants in Southwest Florida

Hispanic Heritage Month wouldn’t be complete without sampling the delicious flavors of Latin American cuisine. Here are the best Hispanic restaurants in Southwest Florida, representing various countries and offering authentic dishes that reflect the region’s cultural diversity.

Mexican Restaurants

El Tarasco Mexican Restaurant
Located in Fort Myers, El Tarasco serves up authentic Mexican dishes such as enchiladas, tamales, and street tacos. Known for their flavorful salsas and homemade tortillas, this is a local favorite for those seeking a traditional Mexican meal.
Address: 3605 Fowler St, Fort Myers, FL 33901

La Cocina Mexican Grill
In Naples, La Cocina offers a wide selection of Mexican dishes, including sizzling fajitas and burritos. The restaurant has a laid-back vibe with outdoor seating, perfect for enjoying your meal while basking in the Florida sunshine.
Address: 2001 Pine Ridge Rd, Naples, FL 34109

Cuban Restaurants

Cubay Restaurant
For an authentic Cuban meal in Cape Coral, Cubay offers everything from large Cuban sandwiches to flavorful ropa vieja and tostones. The portions are generous, and the food reflects the true essence of Cuban cuisine.
Address: 3916 Skyline Blvd, Cape Coral, FL 33914

Havana Cuban Restaurant
Havana Cuban Restaurant in Fort Myers is a go-to spot for Cuban comfort food, featuring classic dishes like picadillo, arroz con pollo, and yucca frita. The casual dining experience is complemented by friendly service and vibrant Cuban flavors.
Address: 8841 College Pkwy, Fort Myers, FL 33919

Peruvian Restaurants

Sunqu Delights of Peru
This North Fort Myers restaurant is known for its fresh, zesty ceviche and flavorful lomo saltado, a Peruvian stir-fry dish with beef, onions, and tomatoes. The cozy atmosphere makes it a great place to experience the bold and unique flavors of Peruvian cuisine.
Address: 13180 N Cleveland Ave, North Fort Myers, FL 33903

El Gaucho Inca
Located in Fort Myers, El Gaucho Inca combines Peruvian and Argentinian flavors in a fusion of Latin American cuisine. Their signature Peruvian ceviches are the star of the menu, along with hearty plates of aji de gallina (creamy chicken stew) and arroz chaufa (Peruvian fried rice).
Address: 4383 Colonial Blvd, Fort Myers, FL 33966

Central American Restaurants

El Acajutla
Known for its pupusas, a popular Salvadoran dish made from thick corn tortillas stuffed with cheese, beans, and meats, El Acajutla in Fort Myers provides an authentic taste of Central America. Pair your pupusas with a refreshing passion fruit smoothie for the ultimate dining experience.
Address: 13720 N Cleveland Ave, North Fort Myers, FL 33903

La Chapinita
La Chapinita in Fort Myers is a hidden gem specializing in Guatemalan and Central American food. The menu features Guatemalan tamales, mojarra frita, and the famous shucos (Guatemalan hot dogs). Their pupusas from El Salvador and pan dulce, including Guatemalan quesadillas, are must-try items.
Address: 4424 Cleveland Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33901

Dominican Restaurants

La Kasita
For a taste of the Dominican Republic, La Kasita offers an authentic Dominican dining experience in Fort Myers. Their menu includes favorites like mangu (mashed plantains), sancocho (hearty stew), and tostones (fried green plantains). With flavorful Dominican spices and generous portions, La Kasita brings the best of Dominican cuisine to Southwest Florida.
Address: 3280 Cleveland Ave, Fort Myers, FL 33901

Puerto Rican Restaurants

El Coqui Boriqua
Located in Cape Coral, El Coqui Boriqua is a favorite for Puerto Rican cuisine. Their menu includes mofongo (mashed plantains with garlic and pork), arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas), and lechón asado (roast pork). It’s the perfect spot for anyone craving the bold flavors of Puerto Rico.
Address: 1542 NE 3rd Ave, Cape Coral, FL 33909

La Lechonera
Located in Naples, La Lechonera is known for its slow-roasted pork, pastelón (Puerto Rican lasagna), and empanadillas. It’s the go-to spot for Puerto Rican home-style cooking, offering rich and authentic flavors.
Address: 2085 Tamiami Trail E, Naples, FL 34112

Chilean & Argentinian Restaurants

Empanadas & More
If you’re craving authentic Chilean empanadas, Empanadas & More in Naples offers a variety of savory and sweet options. Their flaky empanadas come stuffed with meats, cheeses, and vegetables, providing a perfect handheld treat.
Address: 10391 Tamiami Trail N, Naples, FL 34108

Argentinian Grill
Located in Fort Myers, Argentinian Grill specializes in traditional parrillada (mixed grill), featuring various cuts of steak and sausage. Their empanadas are a popular starter, and the restaurant has become known for its robust Argentinian flavors and premium steaks.
Address: 14261 S Tamiami Trail, Fort Myers, FL 33912

Ecuadorian Restaurants

Sabores A Ecuador
For a taste of Ecuador, Sabores A Ecuador in Naples brings the country’s traditional flavors to life. Specialties include seco de chivo (goat stew), llapingachos (potato pancakes), and ceviche de camarón (shrimp ceviche). Ecuadorian cuisine is known for its hearty and comforting dishes, and Sabores A Ecuador offers an authentic experience.
Address: 1513 N Airport Rd, Naples, FL 34104

Embrace Hispanic Heritage in Southwest Florida

From vibrant festivals like the Taste of Latino Festival and exciting tributes like Latin Legends: Selena and Shakira, to the incredible array of Latin American cuisine available at the best Hispanic restaurants in Southwest Florida, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. Whether you’re indulging in Guatemalan tamales at La Chapinita or dancing to salsa rhythms at the Latin Dance Party, Southwest Florida offers countless ways to honor and enjoy the rich culture and contributions of the Hispanic and Latino community.

Be sure to check out these events and dine at these top Latin American restaurants to fully experience the beauty and flavor of Hispanic Heritage Month in Southwest Florida!

The post Hispanic Heritage Events in Southwest Florida: Celebrate with Culture and the Best Hispanic Restaurants first appeared on 365 Things to do in Southwest Florida.

The post Hispanic Heritage Events in Southwest Florida: Celebrate with Culture and the Best Hispanic Restaurants appeared first on 365 Things to do in Southwest Florida.

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