La Onda Arte Latino Hispanic Heritage Month Kickoff Celebration

Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with La Onda Arte Latino, a vibrant cross-border gathering of art, film, music, and community. Hosted across UC San Diego Park & Market and the Digital Gym Cinema, this free, family-friendly event brings together artists, filmmakers, musicians, cultural leaders, and community partners to spotlight the richness and diversity of Latinx creativity in the San Diego–Tijuana region and beyond.

A highlight of the day is the debut of a new sculptural exhibition by renowned Mexican artist José Sacal, presented in collaboration with Fundación Sacal. Special reflections from representatives of the U.S.-Mexican Consulate in San Diego will honor Sacal’s legacy and celebrate the power of binational artistic exchange.

Throughout the afternoon, guests can explore a curated Latinx visual arts exhibition organized by Andy Gonzalez of La Onda Arte Latino, enjoy live and DJ’d music performances, meet artists and vendors, and connect with cultural organizations from across the region.

As part of the Creative Cinema Series at Digital Gym, audiences will experience specially curated screenings, including the San Diego premiere of Hola Frida! (2025) — a whimsical new biopic on Frida Kahlo’s childhood, directed by André Kadi and Karine Vézina.

• Latinx Visual Art Exhibition Location: Park & Market 2nd Floor Gallery A dynamic group show featuring artists from San Diego–Tijuana, Mexico, Peru, Cuba, Colombia, and beyond. Artists will be on-site for informal talks, meet-and-greets, and vendor pop-ups.
• Sculptural Exhibition: José Sacal Presented in collaboration with Fundación Sacal, this installation honors one of Mexico’s most celebrated modern sculptors.
• Creative Cinema Series at Digital Gym Special screenings of Latin American and U.S. Latinx independent films, including Hola Frida!, with festive concessions available. (Tickets available for purchase)
• Cultural Exchange & Partner Spotlights Remarks from UC San Diego leaders, the U.S.-Mexican Consulate, and participating cultural organizations. Musical interludes and community-building moments throughout the day.
• Live Music, DJs & Performances Celebrate with music and dance across both venues.
• Vendors & Community Marketplace Local artists and makers will showcase and sell their work.

• Admission: Free and open to the public
• Family Friendly: All ages welcome
• Parking: Street parking, underground parking, and nearby lots are available. (Note: parking may be limited if a Padres game is scheduled — rideshare is recommended.)

Host or Publisher UC San Diego Extension