By September 4, 2026
September brings opportunities to celebrate culture, reflect on what connects us, and strengthen the communities we call home. From Hispanic Heritage Month and Rosh Hashanah to global observances centered on democracy and peace, the month invites us to learn from one another and recognize the many traditions and experiences that shape our communities.
Here are a few September observances and local celebrations to know about this year.
Month-long Observances & Celebrations
Hispanic Heritage Month — September 15 to October 15
National Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans whose roots trace to Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America.
The celebration begins September 15, a date that coincides with the independence anniversaries of several Latin American countries, with additional independence days celebrated throughout the month.
It’s an opportunity to celebrate the people, traditions, stories, and contributions that continue to shape our communities here in Washington and across the country.
Learn more about National Hispanic Heritage Month.
Celebrate locally: Sea Mar Fiestas Patrias
September 19–20, 2026 | Armory Food & Event Hall, Seattle Center
Looking for a way to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month close to home? Sea Mar Fiestas Patrias returns to Seattle Center September 19–20 as part of the Seattle Center Festál series.
The free, family-friendly festival celebrates Latin American culture and independence with traditional food, live music, folk dancing, art, children’s activities, and more.
Learn more about Sea Mar Fiestas Patrias.
Rosh Hashanah — September 11–13, 2026
Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, begins at sundown on September 11 and continues through nightfall on September 13.
The holiday marks the beginning of the Jewish High Holy Days and is a time for reflection, renewal, and looking ahead to the year to come. Traditions can include gathering with family and community, hearing the sounding of the shofar, and enjoying symbolic foods such as apples and honey to welcome a sweet new year.
To our members, employees, and neighbors who observe, Shanah Tovah!
Events and Day Observances
International Day of Democracy — September 15
Established in 2017 and observed each year on September 15, the United Nations’ International Day of Democracy is an opportunity to reflect on the importance of participation, inclusion, equality, and having a voice in the decisions that affect our communities.
Strong communities are built when people have opportunities to participate, be heard, and help shape their collective future.
International Day of Peace — September 21
Each year on September 21, people around the world recognize the United Nations’ International Day of Peace.
The 2026 theme, “Invest in Peace — For Everyone, Everywhere, Every Day,” recognizes that peace isn’t only created on a global stage. It can also take shape in our neighborhoods, workplaces, schools, and everyday interactions.
It’s a reminder that respect, connection, compassion, and collaboration all play a role in creating communities where more people have the opportunity to thrive.
Ways to get involved
The United Nations encourages everyone to take small steps toward building a more peaceful world. You can:
- Use your time to help someone.
- Lend your voice to drive positive change.
- Host a Peace Circle, an intergeneration youth-led conversation on solutions.
- Use your platform to promote a cause or tell a story of peace and hope.
Show how you're building peace and justice using #InvestInPeace on social media.
Autumn Equinox: The first Day of Fall — September 22
The autumnal equinox arrives in Seattle on September 22, officially marking the first day of fall in the Northern Hemisphere.
As the days get shorter, temperatures cool, and summer gives way to a new season, the equinox can be a simple reminder to embrace change, reset, and make space for what’s ahead.
Celebrating the communities that move us forward
At Verity, community means making room for the different cultures, traditions, experiences, and perspectives that make Washington a vibrant place to call home.
Whether you’re celebrating your own heritage, learning more about someone else’s traditions, or simply finding new ways to connect with the people around you, we hope September brings opportunities to celebrate, reflect, and build community together.
We acknowledge that we may not have listed every celebration or observance important to you and your community. If you have a suggestion for inclusion, please email feedback@veritycu.com.
Keep learning with PWR
Looking to build your financial knowledge this September? Pathways to Wealth & Resources (PWR) offers free financial education designed to meet you where you are, without judgment or strings attached.
PWR Foundations: Understanding Your Earnings & Spending
Saturday, September 5 | 10:30 a.m.–12 p.m. PDT | Online
Ever look at your paycheck and wonder where it all went? This session explores what’s coming in, what’s going out, and the habits that influence both. Learn how to better understand your paystub, compare different income types, and uncover the “why” behind your spending.
Register for PWR Foundations: Understanding Your Earnings & Spending.
PWR Building: Credit Strategies for Growth
Saturday, September 19 | 10:30 a.m.–12 p.m. PDT | Online
Ready to better understand what goes into your credit score? Take a closer look at credit utilization, account mix, inquiries, and the dispute process, with strategies designed to help you make informed decisions and strengthen your financial footing.
Register for PWR Building: Credit Strategies for Growth.
Financial education when you need it
You don’t have to wait for a workshop to keep learning. Verity members have access to financial wellness resources, including support from our financial coaching team and GreenPath Financial Wellness.
The information provided on this blog is for general informational and educational purposes only. All content is written in good faith and is intended to be accurate as of the date of publication. However, laws, regulations, industry standards, and best practices may change over time, and information may become outdated.