Hundreds of guests gathered at the Biltmore Hotel in Coral Gables on Oct. 12 to celebrate Spain's National Day, with Spanish diplomats and local officials highlighting the economic, cultural and family ties connecting South Florida to Spain.

The Consulate General of Spain in Miami organized the reception, bringing together government officials, diplomatic representatives and members of the region's Spanish community, as Diario las Américas reported.

Coral Gables Mayor Vince Lago drew on his own family history during the celebration, telling attendees that his grandfather was Catalan and his wife is Basque. Lago, a Cuban American, said hosting the Spanish consulate in Coral Gables was an honor and gave the occasion personal significance.

Spain's economic and educational ties

Spanish Consul General Belén Alfaro Hernández emphasized Spain's business presence in South Florida, describing the country as the region's largest foreign investor.

Alfaro said approximately 700 Spanish companies operate in South Florida and that the Spain-U.S. Chamber of Commerce represents nearly 600 businesses.

She also highlighted educational partnerships between Spanish institutions and local school districts.

According to Alfaro, eight Miami-Dade County schools offer dual American-Spanish baccalaureate programs through agreements with the consulate, while four Palm Beach County schools have introduced Spanish-language classes through similar arrangements.

Alfaro said she hopes to expand the consulate's educational and cultural partnerships over the coming year.

The celebration also recognized Hispanic contributions to American independence as the United States marks its 250th anniversary in 2026.

Biltmore reflects city's Spanish heritage

The reception's setting reflected Coral Gables' longstanding architectural ties to Spain.

The Biltmore Hotel, built in 1926 by Coral Gables developer George Merrick and hotelier John McEntee Bowman, marks its centennial this year.

Its distinctive tower was inspired by the Giralda bell tower in Seville, Spain. The hotel was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1996.

Spanish influences also appear throughout Coral Gables, particularly in street names such as Granada, Alhambra and Segovia, which reflect Merrick's Mediterranean-inspired vision for the city.

Miami-Dade County Tax Collector Dariel Fernandez also attended the reception.

In a statement released by his office, Fernandez said Miami-Dade County "is strengthened by the many cultures, traditions, and communities that call our county home."

Fernandez also emphasized the importance of welcoming international investment and encouraging new business opportunities, according to Diario las Américas.

The gathering brought together the city's Spanish architectural heritage, the region's growing international business relationships and the personal histories of South Florida residents with ties to Spain.