California Natural Resources Agency

Title: Guided Tour of El Ranchito Adobe and Grounds

• Description: Travel back to the 1880s to explore the adobe of the last Mexican Governor of Alta California, Pio Pico, with a guided tour! Park staff will lead you through the adobe and garden for approximately 45 minutes. There is an optional 15-minute video that runs on a loop if you'd like to arrive early to catch it before the tour. All ages are welcome!

  Groups of 12 or more: please call (562) 695-1217 or email piopico@parks.ca.gov to schedule.

• Time: 10AM & 1PM
• Location: Pio Pico State Historic Park (Whittier, CA)
• More information: https://arcg.is/1fH0C53

Title: Fiestas Patrias: Celebrate Mexican Independence  

• Description: ¡Atención y bienvenidos! Attention and welcome! Join Old Town San Diego State Historic Park in celebrating Fiestas Patrias.  Fiestas Patrias marks the beginning of Mexico’s fight for independence and is a way for us to honor, learn about, and celebrate pride in Mexican heritage, tradition, and history. Enjoy an assortment of traditional crafts, living history demonstrations, and Historic Adobe Walking Tours. Traditional Folklorico dancers from Gift of Dance will perform throughout the day.  
• Time: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

• Location: San Diego State Historic Park, 4002 Wallace Street, San Diego (92110) 

• Registration: No registration is required.  

Title: Bear Fest Nature Hikes / Caminatas Guiadas por el Festival del Oso 

• Description: Join us for Spanish-language educational walks through the Nature Preserve to learn about Black Bears, their behavior and their habitat in Tahoe. Meet at the visitor center on the day use side of the park, no registration required. Please bring water and sun protection. 
• Time: 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. 

• Location: Ed Z'berg Sugar Pine Point State Park, Tahoe 
• Registration: No registration is required.  

Title: Café, Conchas y  Más  

• Description:  Join us for a warm and welcoming morning gathering in the CNRA cafeteria to kick off Latino Heritage Month. Enjoy delicious conchas (sweet bread), coffee, and good company as we celebrate this year’s theme: Nuestra Historia, Nuestro Futuro: Latino Heritage, Nature, and Community. This casual drop‑in event invites staff to connect, reflect, and honor the rich cultural traditions and community spirit that shape our shared future.   
• Time:  7:30-8:30 a.m. 

Location: CNRA HQ 1st Floor Cafeteria, 715 P Street, Sacramento, CA 95814

Title: On the Edge of Empire: Archaeology of the Monterey Bay Author Talk 

• Description: To commemorate Mexican Independence Day and California’s Latino Heritage Month, Monterey State Historic Park presents a free talk by archaeologist Dr. Ruben Mendoza. “On the Edge of Empire” explores the Spanish and Mexican heritage of Monterey Bay, including the architectural histories of four local missions and the Spanish Royal Presidio of Monterey. 
• Time: 6-7 p.m. 

• Location: California’s First Theater, Monterey State Historic Park 

• Register: No registration is required.  

• More info:  https://events.parks.ca.gov/ 

Title: Latino Conservation Week: Bilingual Grove Tour 

• Description: Join a State Park Interpreter for a bilingual walking tour through the citrus groves and learn how citrus became California’s “second gold rush.” The approximately half-mile tour is intended for native Spanish speakers but is open to all. The event is free, though parking fees apply. 
• Time: Noon-1 p.m. 

• Location: California Citrus State Historic Park 

• Register: No registration is required.  

• More info:  https://events.parks.ca.gov/

Title: Little Ranger Story Time (Storytime Fiesta) 

• Description: Join a State Park Interpreter for a free Little Ranger program featuring interactive story time, songs and activities. This month, children will learn simple Spanish words, colors and traditions celebrating California’s Mexican heritage, create colorful tissue paper flowers and earn a Little Ranger sticker. 
• Time: 10:30-11 a.m. 

• Location: Mason Street School House, Old Town San Diego State Historic Park 

• Ages: 3-6 

• Register: No registration is required.  

More info:  https://events.parks.ca.gov/

Title: Junior Ranger Program: Life in the Pueblo 

• Description: Join a free Junior Ranger program exploring the diverse natural and cultural resources of Old Town San Diego State Historic Park. This month, Junior Rangers will discover the cultural influences that shaped life in the pueblo of 1830s San Diego through a guided tour, hands-on living history activity and an official Junior Ranger stamp. 
• Time: Noon-12:45 p.m. 

• Location: Robinson Rose Visitor Information Center, Old Town San Diego State Historic Park 

• Ages: 7-12 

• Register: No registration is required.  

More info:  https://events.parks.ca.gov/

Title: Hidden History Talks: Californio Women 

• Description: Join a State Park Interpreter for a free 15-minute Hidden History Talk highlighting the many roles of Californio women in Old Town San Diego. Learn how women contributed to forming the frontier community of San Diego and actively participated in business dealings and property ownership. 
• Time: 3-3:30 p.m. 

• Location: Seeley Stable Theater, Old Town San Diego State Historic Park 

• Ages: All ages 

• Register: No registration is required.  

More info:  https://events.parks.ca.gov/

Title: Cityscape to Campfire Stroll: Marvelous Monarchs 

• Description: Enjoy an evening celebrating culture, restoration and the marvelous monarch butterfly. Learn about monarch migration to Mexico, make milkweed seed “empanadas” to support habitat restoration, enjoy traditional dances by the Familia Ramos-Martinez dance troupe and gather around the campfire for s’mores. All materials are provided. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. 
• Time: 5-6:30 p.m. 

• Location: Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook 

• Register: Required; parking and other logistics will be provided after RSVP through the Google form. 

More info:  https://events.parks.ca.gov/

Title: Learn Cumbia Dancing with La Luz Center and California State Parks 

• Description: Join us for a fun and vibrant celebration of Latino culture and community. Learn how to dance Cumbia style while participating in crafts, connecting with the community and celebrating together. 
• Time: 5-9 p.m. 

• Location: Sonoma State Historic Park 

• Register:  No registration is required.  

More info:  https://events.parks.ca.gov/

Title: Latino Conservation Week: Día de Aventura de Remo 

• Description: Celebrate Latino Conservation Week with a bilingual day of adventure, learning and community. Activities include paddling, a picnic and a guided hike around Donner Lake. Participants will raft for 45-60 minutes while learning about the park’s history, followed by a guided hike highlighting historical uses of native plants, trees and mushrooms. The free, family-friendly event includes lunch and free parking. 
• Time: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. 

• Location: Donner Memorial State Park 

• Register: Tickets are very limited; one ticket per person. Waivers must be signed on the day of the event. 

More info:  https://events.parks.ca.gov/

Title: Tour Castro Adobe Open House  

• Description: Discover the history of the Castro family, and their two-story adobe hacienda built 180 years ago. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon touring the Rancho San Andres State Historic Property in Watsonville CA. Learn about the Vaquero culture and life during the Mexican Rancho Period of California History. Even if you have visited before, come again to see all the brand-new exhibits and interpretive displays. Enjoy live music and docent presentations. Because this is a historic site, dogs are not permitted.  
• Time: There are several tours throughout the day, starting at 10:30 a.m. The last one is at 2:15 p.m. Tours are 15 minutes long. 

• Location: 184 Old Adobe Rd, Watsonville (95076)  

• Registration: Click here to view tour availability.

Date: Tuesday, September 22, 2026.

• Title: Salsa Smackdown: A Flavorful Fiesta at Work!

• Description: This is a salsa competition and potluck open to state staff across CNRA. Get ready to turn up the heat and stir up some friendly competition at our second annual Salsa Smackdown — a flavorful celebration of creativity, community, and culinary flair! Whether you're a master of mild or a champion of the chili pepper, we want YOU to bring your best homemade dip to the table.  
  You may sign up to enter the salsa competition or bring a potluck item. Please also bring your favorite bag of tortilla chips to enjoy the full tasting experience. All attendees will have the chance to sample the salsa entries, cast their votes, and help crown this year’s Salsa Champions. 

• Time: Noon to 1 p.m.

• Location: 20th Floor Cafe of CNRA HQ 715 P Street, Sacramento, CA 95814

Link to Register: 2026 Salsa Smackdown and Potluck RSVP Form (https://forms.cloud.microsoft/g/4YFg71mjVq)

title: Teatro Nagual Performance, Somewhere: A Primer for the End of Days

• Description:  Somewhere: A Primer for the End of Days follows siblings tracing the final migration of monarch butterflies after ecological collapse, a story of survival, resilience, and building a sustainable future. This mirrors CNRA's mission to protect biodiversity and help "all Californians and nature thrive together." It's also a chance to celebrate Latino artistry and storytelling during Latino Heritage Month, fulfilling both the cultural and environmental threads of CNRA's mission in a single event.
• Time: 8:00 PM (gates open 1 hour before the show starts)

• Location:  Fair Oaks Performing Arts Center - Veterans Memorial Amphitheater, 7991 California Ave, Fair Oaks, CA 95628

• Cost: First 40 persons to register will secure free entrance (courtesy of Trust for Public Land) - you will receive confirmation.

• Register: https://forms.gle/Yu7mvv9wD6JEmoPC7 

Title: Little Ranger Story Time (Storytime Fiesta) 

• Description: Join a State Park Interpreter for a free Little Ranger program featuring interactive story time, songs and activities. Children will learn simple Spanish words, colors and traditions celebrating California’s Mexican heritage, create colorful tissue paper flowers and earn a Little Ranger sticker. 
• Time: 10:30-11 a.m. 

• Location: Mason Street School House, Old Town San Diego State Historic Park 

• Ages: 3-6 

• Register:  No registration is required.  

More info:  https://events.parks.ca.gov/

Title: Junior Ranger Program: Life in the Pueblo 

• Description: Explore the diverse natural and cultural resources of Old Town San Diego State Historic Park through a free Junior Ranger program. Participants will discover the cultural influences that shaped life in the pueblo of 1830s San Diego through a guided tour, hands-on living history activity and official Junior Ranger stamp. 
• Time: Noon-12:45 p.m. 

• Location: Robinson Rose Visitor Information Center, Old Town San Diego State Historic Park 

• Ages: 7-12 

• Register: No registration is required.  

More info:  https://events.parks.ca.gov/

Title: Hidden History Talk: Californio Women 

• Description: Join a State Park Interpreter for a free 15-minute talk highlighting the many roles of Californio women in Old Town San Diego, including their contributions to the frontier community and participation in business dealings and property ownership. 
• Time: 3-3:30 p.m. 

• Location: Seeley Stable Theater, Old Town San Diego State Historic Park 

• Ages: All ages 

• Register: No registration is required.  

More info:  https://events.parks.ca.gov/

Title: EcoAlebrijes Art Sculpture Workshop 

• Description:  In partnership with Imperial Valley Equity and Justice, the Salton Sea Program Team will offer a hands-on sculpture‑making workshop to createecoalebrijes inspired by the diverse species that call the Salton Sea home. This community art event celebrates Latino Heritage Month by uplifting a tradition that blends imagination, environmental awareness, and cultural pride. By joining us, community members will not only learn creative techniques for building eco-friendly alebrijes but also help shape a collective art piece that reflects the vibrant spirit of the Imperial Valley. Your participation strengthens community connections, encourages cultural expression, and provides a space for families, youth, and neighbors to come together in celebration of shared heritage. 
• Time: TBD 

• Location: Calipatria, CA 

• Registration: TBD 

Title: Raíces and Resources: Careers in Natural Resources

• Description: We are helping shape California by making sure the Latino voice is heard in the workplace, including in the Natural Resources Agency. Join us for a career panel to learn how Latinos’ experience and knowledge is adding perspective to different agencies within CNRA.
• Time: Noon to 1 p.m. 

• Location: Virtual event 

• Registration link: https://ca-water-gov.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_WwqHTTJcQvK_vCpD1hZI0Q

Title: 2026 Happy Hour Mixer for Latino Heritage Month

• Time: 5-7pm
• Location: Lola’s Lounge 2424 16th St
• Description: Enjoy a vibrant and joyous atmosphere at Lola’s Lounge, a Puerto Rican-owned restaurant committed to good times and great food. Sip on a custom cocktail or their signature sangria while sharing comforting Puerto Rican specialties like mofongo and pernil with colleagues and friends as you celebrate Latin Heritage Month.

Come for the food, stay for the connections!

Title: ¡Vamos al Salton Sea! Celebrando Cultura y Naturaleza 

• Description:  Salton Sea Program Team will take community members on a tour throughout the SCH project and highlight important components of the project that help protect air quality and restore ecological value at the south end of the Sea. This a community event that will also reflect on the importance of remembering our Latino roots and the need for collective work towards environmental stewardship and protecting the Salton Sea 
• Time: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

• Location: Salton Sea. Species Conservation Habitat (SCH) Project, 6098 Poe Rd, Brawley, CA, 92227 

Registration: TBD 

Title: Mango, Abuela, and Me StoryWalk 

• Description: Young children and their families can walk through a StoryWalk celebrating the ways families bridge cultures and share traditions. The StoryWalk begins at the small, covered table closest to the restrooms at the North Forebay. Bring a filled water bottle and wear close-toed shoes. Visitors can request a free parking pass from entry station staff by letting them know they are attending the StoryWalk. 
• Time: 9-11 a.m. 

• Location: North Forebay, Lake Oroville State Recreation Area, Oroville 

• Register: No registration is required.  

More info:  https://events.parks.ca.gov/ 

Title: Secretary Speaker Series: Sin Miedo – Celebrating Latino Culture, Nature, and Community

• Description: California’s public lands hold stories of migration, labor, family, cultural tradition, recreation, and community identity. Latino communities have shaped and cared for the state’s parks, forests, deserts, waterways, and historic places for generations. Yet barriers to outdoor access, changing environmental protections, and fear surrounding immigration enforcement continue to affect how many families experience these shared spaces. During Latino Heritage Month, hear from inspiring Latino leaders who have broken barriers, overcome difficult circumstances, and lead with compassion. We will explore the strength of community and the work underway to create parks and public lands where everyone feels safe, represented, and welcome. 
• Time: Noon to 1 p.m. 

• Location: Virtual event 
• Registration: https://ca-water-gov.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_EOLoQ6Y5RCW-AF7ZXNrGOw#/registration