The Hispanic-American Women’s Association – also known as Asociación Hispano-Americana de Mujeres or AHAM – will host its 28th annual Hispanic Heritage Festival Sept. 13 at Bon Secours Wellness Arena from noon to 6 p.m.
The festival celebrates 20 Hispanic cultures through traditional food, music and dancing.
“It shows the beauty of the Hispanic community and the many cultures have come together to make the Upstate stronger,” said AHAM president Patricia McDaniel.
Proceeds from the festival have a direct impact on the local Hispanic students. In May, AHAM was able to award $75,000 in scholarships to 12 students. Over the past 28 years, AHAM has awarded a total of $712,000 to more than 220 students.
The festival has grown along with the community. McDaniel hopes the larger venue will allow more families to enjoy the festival. Bon Secours Wellness Arena general manager Beth Paul said her team was excited to be part of bringing the festival to life on a larger scale.
“My desire is that we continue a longstanding relationship with AHAM, all with the hopes of making higher education a reality for more students,” she said.
Colón Law Firm, Legacy Early College and Armada Law are all sponsors of the festival. Legacy Early College community ambassador LaCheryl Coleman highlighted 2026 salutatorian Elvis Oliver, who received a $10,000 scholarship from AHAM.
“When you walk through those doors, you will see our colors, hear our music, taste our food and experience our traditions,” McDaniel said. “And behind all those colors and celebrations, you will also see a community that believes in education, opportunity and a better future for the next generation.”
Festival admission is $5 at the door and free for children 7 and under. For more information, visit ahamsc.org/hhf.
