Latin students put their knowledge to the test at Latinalia 2025, an annual event that brings young scholars together to celebrate the language, history, and competitive spirit of ancient Rome.
On March 19, 28 New Hartford Central School District students studying Latin showcased their skills at the Latinalia competition. Participants earned ribbons for first, second, and third place in academic tests conducted before the event, covering vocabulary, derivatives, Roman culture, mythology, and pentathlon.
Latinalia is an annual Latin-day competition for students in grades 7-12 who are enrolled in Latin courses ranging from introductory to advanced placement levels. Students compete in a variety of activities that demonstrate their knowledge of Roman history, mythology, and the Latin language.
This year’s theme, “Dux Femina Facti” (A Woman Was the Leader), highlighted influential women in leadership. Guest speaker, Angelina Scriptor, a New Hartford graduate, shared her journey in writing and publishing, inspiring students to embrace their own storytelling through “Writing Your Story.”
Beyond academics, students competed in Latin-themed games like Pictionary, VERBA (Latin Apples-to-Apples), VINCO (Latin Bingo), Rota Fortuna (Wheel of Fortune), Certamen (Latin Jeopardy), and a scavenger hunt. Hands-on activities included building a Roman temple, a costume contest, and Roman jewelry making workshops.
Latinalia continues to be a valuable opportunity for students to celebrate Latin language and culture, apply their knowledge in competitive settings, and connect with fellow enthusiasts.
This year’s competition was held at Le Moyne College and was attended by approximately 250 students from Willow Glen Christian School, New Hartford, Geneva, Fayetteville-Manlius, Skaneateles, and East Syracuse-Minoa school districts.