Unquarantined: Bergen County Celebrates The Empanada This Weekend

BERGEN COUNTY, NJ — What makes a classic empanada largely depends on what region of the world the filled, baked or fried pastry comes from. With roots in Spain, Portugal and much of South America, the filling can differ from country to country, or even province to province in Argentina.

According to Culture Trip, the origins of the empanada aren't entirely clear, but can likely be traced back to Argentina and, more specifically, the Argentinian kitchens of immigrants from Northern Spain.

Empanadas have become a culinary staple across the world since that time, and will be celebrated this week at Empanada Fest III in Paramus. According to the organizers of the event, the event will highlight local, gourmet food vendors, who will put their own unique twist on the dish.

Empanada Fest is scheduled for Sunday at 11 a.m. at Garden State Plaza, where those eating the dish will get to choose who made the best dish.

If that isn't your thing, there are plenty of other options to choose from this weekend in Bergen County. Here are a few:

Field Station Dinosaurs: T-Rex Meet and Greet

Where: Westfield Garden State Plaza, Paramus, NJ

When: Saturday, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

More info.

River Edge Car Show

Where: River Dell high School, Oradell, NJ

When: Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

More info.

Jersey Sound Sounds of Summer Concert Series

Where: Atlantic Street Park, Hackensack, NJ

When: Friday, 7 to 8:30 p.m.

More info.