Learn Spanish your way with a TakeLessons expert

By Joan B. - Sacramento Spanish Teacher

Feel like taking your Spanish language skills out on the town? Sacramento is a vibrant city for Hispanic culture and Spanish language, since many of the residents are Spanish speakers. As a Spanish tutor, former Spanish public school teacher, and long-time resident of Sacramento, I thought of the places I most enjoy frequenting and recommend that my students visit while taking Spanish lessons in Sacramento. The following events and activities will allow you to put your language skills into practice and learn more about the culture as you’re taking Spanish lessons in Sacramento!

Sol Collective, an art gallery in downtown Sacramento that describes itself as dedicated to art, culture, and activism, is a great place to start. It features a variety of interesting artwork, all from the Hispanic world. There is also a shop with a large selection of Day of the Dead items. More than just an art gallery, Sol Collective also features activities for the community and screens films. This is a wonderful place to become more acquainted with current themes of Hispanic art, as well as meet other like-minded art and culture lovers, many of whom are Spanish speakers. Check out Sol Collective's website here: http://www.solcollective.org/.

Speaking of Day of the Dead, Sacramento is well known for its sizable and festive celebration of the holiday that commemorates deceased family members. On November 1st and 2nd every year, there are public altars displayed with photos, favorite foods and other items placed on the altar. Viewing the altars is a unique glimpse into a central theme of Mexican culture - honoring and remembering those who are gone. As the day that the living can spend time with those who have passed away, the Day of the Dead offers a chance to understand Hispanic culture's viewpoint on death, a topic viewed very differently compared to other cultures. To add an epicurean element to your exploration of the holiday, try the Day of the Dead bread (pan de muertos), which can be bought at La Esperanza Bakery. The bakery is itself worth a visit, as it is considered the best Mexican bakery in town!

Another way to learn more about the culture of Spanish-speaking countries is through cuisine. Aioli Bodega Española is a very well-known restaurant with cuisine from Spain. Notable Mexican restaurants include Ernesto's, Zocalo and Tres Hermanas. Reading the menu options and discussing the cuisine with your waiter is a simple way to incorporate new vocabulary related to food, eating and restaurants.

When the weather becomes especially beautiful as summer approaches, why not attend the long-running Cinco de Mayo festival, located downtown in Southside Park? This cheerful festival celebrates with food, drink and traditional Mexican culture. You can even make a whole day of it, as several restaurants, including Ernesto's and Zocalo (mentioned above), feature live Mariachi music and other treats for Cinco de Mayo. Cinco de Mayo is a fun opportunity to practice speaking with Spanish speakers and get a dose of culture at the same time.

With these resources, you can greatly enrich your Spanish study while taking Spanish lessons in Sacramento! The city’s rich connection with Hispanic culture makes it an ideal place to explore the culture and language. Enjoy this incredible opportunity to join the community of Spanish speakers who reside in your city by visiting these festivals, galleries and restaurants!