National Hispanic Heritage Month at Far Hills

Far Hills Country Day School students honored National Hispanic Heritage Month in a hands-on, flavorful celebration—by making empanadas in their Spanish classes! From our youngest Lower School learners to our eighth graders, each student rolled up their sleeves to create this beloved dish while discovering the deeper stories and traditions it represents across Hispanic cultures.

National Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated from September 15 to October 15, recognizes the histories, cultures, and contributions of Americans whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. At Far Hills, this month serves as an opportunity to celebrate diversity, foster understanding, and connect classroom learning with cultural appreciation.

During their Spanish lessons, students explored how empanadas reflect regional flavors, family traditions, and community celebrations. As they mixed, filled, and folded their dough, students discussed the origins of the dish, how recipes vary from country to country, and the importance of food as a bridge between cultures. Students delighted in hands-on learning as they practiced vocabulary related to cooking, ingredients, and traditions—all in Spanish, while taking a deeper dive into cultural contexts and reflecting on how food carries stories, identity, and history.

This annual empanada-making experience has become a beloved Far Hills tradition, blending language learning with cultural exploration. Beyond the delicious results, the activity inspires curiosity, empathy, and appreciation for the vibrant cultures that shape our world. A big gracias to our Spanish teachers for leading this enriching experience—and to our students for their enthusiasm and creativity in celebrating Hispanic heritage. Until next year, ¡más empanadas, por favor!

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