Hispanic Heritage Month is a vibrant celebration of the history, culture, and contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities across the United States. From September 15 through October 15, this month honors the diverse traditions that have enriched our communities for generations.
Savor the Flavors
Here in Texas, we’re fortunate to have incredible access to authentic Mexican and Latin American cuisine. With so many restaurants and grocery stores nearby, most of us are already familiar with Tex-Mex staples like tacos, enchiladas, and queso. But when you look at the full richness of Hispanic culture, there’s so much more to enjoy beyond the basics!
Here are a few flavorful dishes you might try this Hispanic Heritage Month:
- Tortilla Española (Spain)
A thick potato omelet cooked in a cast iron pan, Tortilla Española is one of Spain’s most beloved dishes. Made with potatoes, onions, and eggs, it’s simple, hearty, and can be enjoyed as a snack, served tapas style, or as the centerpiece of a meal. Try it HERE - Arepas (South America)
Originating in what is now Venezuela and Colombia, arepas are cornmeal cakes that can be grilled, baked, or fried. They’re often topped or filled with cheese, beans, avocado, or meats, making them as versatile as they are delicious. Arepas are a true comfort food, enjoyed at any time of day. Try it HERE - Mole (Mexico)
Mole (pronounced moh-lay) is a traditional Mexican sauce that blends chili peppers, spices, fruits, and sometimes chocolate into a rich, flavorful topping for chicken, turkey, or seafood. The word “mole” comes from the Nahuatl language spoken by the Aztecs, and today it remains a treasured part of Mexican cooking. Try it HERE - Gallo Pinto (Costa Rica & Nicaragua)
Known as the national dish of both Costa Rica and Nicaragua, gallo pinto is a simple yet flavorful blend of rice, beans, onions, peppers, and spices. The name means “spotted rooster,” describing the speckled look of the beans and rice together. Often served with eggs and sausage, it’s a staple breakfast across Central America. Try it HERE
Exploring these traditional dishes is a fun way to experience the incredible diversity of Hispanic cuisine. Each recipe carries with it stories of family, history, and heritage—making every bite a celebration.
Celebrate Through Music and Dance
Music and dance are at the heart of Hispanic culture. Many dances are a fusion of Indigenous, African, and European traditions, reflecting Latin America’s diverse history. Beyond movement, dance often tells stories—depicting folklore, local legends, and even themes of romance—through expressive steps, colorful attire, and dynamic rhythms.
Here are just a few of the rich dance traditions celebrated across the Hispanic world:
- Flamenco (Spain)
Originating in southern Spain, flamenco is known for its passionate movements, rhythmic guitar music (toque), soulful singing (cante), and the percussive sounds of hand claps (palmas) and castanets. Its intensity and emotion make it one of the most recognizable Spanish art forms. - Folk Dances (Mexico)
Mexico’s traditional dances showcase vibrant costumes and regional pride. The famous Jarabe Tapatío, often called the “Mexican Hat Dance,” is a lively performance filled with energy and joy. Ballet Folklórico brings stories to life through flowing skirts, intricate footwork, and Mariachi music, highlighting the diverse cultural roots of Mexico’s regions. - Salsa (Cuba/Caribbean)
With roots in Cuban Son and Rumba, salsa evolved into a globally beloved partnered dance. Its upbeat rhythms and fluid steps make it both accessible and exciting, bringing people together on dance floors around the world. - Tango (Argentina & Uruguay)
Emerging from the Río de la Plata region, tango is known for its dramatic flair and intense, intimate connection between partners. The dance captures both the spirit and emotion of its origins, making it a symbol of passion across the globe.
Whether you’re watching a performance, joining a community dance class, or simply turning on music at home, celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month through music and dance is a joyful way to honor history while embracing togetherness. Families can play a Latin music playlist at home, look up online videos, and enjoy the rhythms that have carried communities for centuries.
Get Creative with Arts and Crafts
Hands-on creativity is another way to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. Craft projects not only bring color and fun into your home, but they also give children a playful way to connect with cultural traditions. These activities spark curiosity, open the door for meaningful conversations, and create lasting family memories.
Here are a few ideas to try:
Papel Picado – Create beautiful cut-paper banners to hang around the house. These bright decorations are a staple at celebrations and festivals. Try it HERE
Piñatas – Make or purchase a piñata, fill it with candy, and let the whole family enjoy the fun of breaking it open in the backyard. Make a simple version at home HERE
Paper Flowers – Paper flower crafts are often used in Mexico to celebrate cultural heritage and bring bursts of color to any celebration. Try it HERE
Taino Rock Carvings - Inspired by the petroglyphs of the Taíno people in Puerto Rico, Cuba, and the Caribbean, kids can make carvings or drawings with similar patterns and figures to glimpse this Indigenous culture. Try making some HERE
Chilean Rainsticks – Traditionally crafted from dried cactus tubes, rainsticks were used by native people of Chile to summon rain spirits during droughts. Recreate the sound of rain at home with your own handmade version filled with small items like beads, rice, or pebbles. Make one HERE
These crafts invite children (and adults!) to learn by doing—turning creativity into a celebration of culture.
Honor the Legacy
Hispanic Heritage Month is about recognizing the lasting impact Hispanic and Latinx communities have had on our nation. It’s a time to reflect on contributions in art, science, politics, music, and beyond. It’s also a reminder of the richness of diversity, and how each culture adds something beautiful to the whole.
Check near you to find additional ways to celebrate! Many local libraries, restaurants, and city recreation departments host fun and festive celebrations throughout September and October to celebrate the season! Take a look at this local list of celebrations: DFW CELEBRATIONS
At CK Family Services, we celebrate the many cultures that make up our community. As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, we are reminded of the importance of family, connection, and belonging as we work to provide safe, loving homes for children in foster care and healing through Children's Mental and Behavioral Health services. Take a look at how you can join us: GET INVOLVED
