TEXAS — Friday is the start of several grand National Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations in Texas. It pays homage to the culture, history and contributions of Hispanic and Latin Americans.

From Sept. 5 to Oct. 15, people are united by their shared appreciation for the influence of Hispanic and Latin communities. The theme this year is "Latinos: Driving Prosperity, Power, and Progress in America."

President Lyndon Johnson, in 1968, started the observation first known as Hispanic Heritage Week. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan elongated that week into 30 days. On Aug. 17, 1988, National Hispanic Heritage Month was enacted into law.

“The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua,” explained the U.S. Census Bureau. “In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September18, respectively. Also, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, which is October 12, falls within this 30-day period.”

The month-long salute to Hispanic and Latin Americans also commemorates the legacy of their ancestors that descended from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.

Celebratory events for National Hispanic Heritage Month are happening around Texas. Here’s where you can find some of them:

Sept. 15

Sept. 16

Sept. 23

Oct. 14

Oct. 15