Hispanic Heritage Month is nationally recognized from September 15th to October 15th each year. According to the U.S. Census, Hispanic Heritage is the heritage of any person “of Cuban, Mexican, Puerto Rican, South or Central American, or other Spanish culture or origin regardless of race.” This month is a time to celebrate and appreciate the contributions and influence of these cultures to our nation. Whether you have Hispanic heritage or not, there are many ways to celebrate these rich cultures in your home during this season.
7 Ways to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month at Home
1. Make homemade flour tortillas.
I promise, making your own tortillas is the best way to take a regular Taco Tuesday and make it restaurant-worthy! Here’s an easy-to-follow tortilla recipe for making your own flour tortillas. Personal pro tip from a girl who grew up making these: Use lard instead of oil or shortening. That’ll give it the most authentic flavor.
2. Blast some of your favorite Latin music during chore time or while working out.
Hispanic culture is full of lively, upbeat music that can get anyone dancing! Pump yourself up for a long run with some Shakira or Pitbull or encourage your kids to clean the playroom with some Selena Gomez as they work. Afterward, watch the movie Selena to get a sneak peek into the life of an influential Hispanic musician and listen to some of her best songs.
3. Make a trip to the library to find and read Hispanic literature.
There are so many beautiful stories of food, music, and family written by Hispanic authors. Some even incorporate simple Spanish words or phrases so the reader can be fully immersed in the story. Scholastic has a wonderful compilation of books written by Hispanic authors and biographies about Hispanic scientists, musicians, artists, and more! A few of my personal favorite books include Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan, The House On Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros, and Dancing Hands: How Teresa Carreño Played the Piano for President Lincoln by Margarita Engle. It will be easy to incorporate these books to teach about Hispanic Heritage Month to your children!
4. Play a game of dominos.
This family classic tile-laying game has deep roots in Central America and beyond. It is not only popular here in the United States but has a rich traditional history in Colombia, Cuba, and Puerto Rico. Depending on the culture, there can be many different rules and ways to win a traditional game of dominos. Search for different ways to play and explore what your family’s favorite version of the game might be.
5. Add a Mexican papel picado fiesta banner to an empty corner of your home.
These fun, colorful banners are used in Mexican celebrations from birthday parties to Cinco de Mayo and always liven up a gathering place. If you’re into DIY, here’s a YouTube tutorial on how to make your own.
6. Support local Hispanic businesses.
Dallas is so full of local restaurants, sweet bread shops, mechanics, realtors, etc. operated by Hispanic business owners. Pay a visit, leave a review, or share a social media post for your most visited Hispanic-owned local businesses.
7. Make your own piñata.
These colorful party favorites are usually filled with candy and confetti to sweeten any celebration. Here is an excellent tutorial with several ways to make a piñata with varying degrees of difficulty. Hang it in your playroom or in the kids’ bedroom as a reminder to celebrate their Hispanic heritage each day!
Looking for more ways to celebrate? Add these traditions to your holidays!
Do you celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month in your home? Please share what this month looks like for your family!
