Dia De Los Muertos – Day of the Dead – celebrated Oct 31-Nov 2

It's important to celebrate as a community, for occasions big and small! Join us in Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebrations, from October 31st through November 2nd. Wether you are using one of our family fun activities found here, or celebrating in your own way, share your celebration with us by posting online, with #YDCelebrates.

Is day of the dead a sad celebration?

Day of the Dead may sound like a sad celebration, but it is actually a joyous occasion of remembering and celebrating loved ones who have died. For the people who celebrate the Day of the Dead festival (Dia de Muertos), it is viewed as just part of the cycle of life and children are taught not to fear death. It is meant to be a happy time to share memories of loved ones who have passed.

What countries celebrate the Day of the Dead? 

When we think of Day of the Dead, we probably think Day of the Dead activities in Mexico. While that country has large Dia de los Muertos celebrations, the traditions are also honored in Guatemala, Brazil, Spain, and also in the United States, especially in the areas of Los Angeles where there are large Hispanic populations.

Here are some fun activities you and your family can do at home to celebrate Dia de Los Muertos:

Create an Altar

Day of the Dead altars are made as a way of remembering and honoring deceased friends and family. The altars help guide the spirits back to the land of the living on the Noche de Muertos  on the night of November 2. 

Incense, flowers, candles, clothes, and food are left out to lead the dead to the altar and their waiting families, who spend the night in the graveyard singing, playing music, eating, drinking, and remembering. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Make Sugar Skulls

Traditionally, sugar skulls are made in Mexico in the weeks leading up to the Day of the Dead, a meaningful celebration that occurs from the evening of October 1 through November 2. It is a time for honoring and celebrating our loved ones who have passed away. Sugar skulls are given as colorful gifts to the living or placed on altars as offerings for the deceased.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Family Movie Night 

Come together as a family and celebrate by watching Disney Pixars film, COCO with some pan dulce.

Try this recipe for Pan Dulce from Mexico in my Kitchen.