Utah is home to Hispanic- and Latino-owned businesses offering everything from art and music to groceries and fitness classes. So this Hispanic Heritage Month, skip the generic “celebrate diversity” post and actually go spend some money with a local business. Your wallet doesn’t have a language barrier.
Find your new favorite artist, maker, or market
- Start with La Buena Vida Market, an Ogden-based market created by first-generation Hispanic entrepreneur Jeanette Castel. The market was founded to give Hispanic and Latino small-business owners a place to showcase their products, share their stories, and connect with the community. The next market is for Día de los Muertos on Oct. 10 at the Ogden Amphitheater.
- Looking for something to hang on your wall, give as a gift, or just admire? Check out Peruvian Craft Studio. I first saw Esther Merino’s work at Craft Lake City several years ago and have to snag a piece every time I see it! Esther uses her textile and fiber art largely to depict the beauty and strength of Peruvian women. She has been featured in several shows at JKR Gallery in Provo over the last few years, including the Business Card Art Show.
- Salt Lake City’s Roots Art Kollective brings Mexican American culture and community to life through bold, colorful murals. Founded by artists Miguel Galaz, Alan Ochoa, and Luis Novoa, the collective uses nature, patterns, and calligraphy to create public art that celebrates the cultures and stories woven into Utah communities. You can appreciate their murals all over the city … and maybe even hire them to create one for your business!
Eat, drink, and move
- Rancho Markets, founded by Eli Madrigal, now has 10 locations across Utah. All the stores have different offerings, but I love the pineapple cutting machine at my location in Salt Lake City. The butcher will also fry up a whole fish for you to serve at home if you’re intimidated by hot oil. Not me, but maybe you are. And I find the prices, on produce especially, to be some of the best in the city.
- Grupo Folklórico Sapichu focuses on traditional dances from every region of Mexico. They offer classes for kids and adults, as well as drop-in classes for adults with some experience. And you can see the team perform at events all over the state.
- Looking for a workout that feels more like a party than a punishment? Latina- and queer-owned CHVRCH Cycle is built around movement, music and community. The Salt Lake City studio aims to make everyone feel seen and welcome, regardless of experience or fitness level. Expect high-energy cycling, themed rides, Latin-inspired music, and a community where you can show up exactly as you are.
