Hello and Happy Wednesday to you! How is your week going so far? We’re halfway through, remembering that always helps give me the energy to stay motivated for the second half!
This being our first year away from El Paso, Texas, a city we love very much, I find myself really nostalgic for the beautiful traditions we celebrated when we lived there. Now, perhaps more than any other time of year, I think about the holidays coming up, and one especially that is close to my heart.
Have you ever heard of the “Day of the Dead”, or “Día de Muertos,” as it’s known in Spanish? It’s not a scary or spooky event like Halloween; instead, it’s a special holiday originating in Mexico when families come together to celebrate and remember their loved ones who have passed away. I have always found it to be incredibly special and meaningful, and enjoyed having the opportunity to witness this celebration every year. I think that there is something wonderful about remembering and honoring those who have passed on, and celebrating their lives and legacies. Seeing the altars honoring family members from past generations and attending the annual Day of the Dead celebration in the downtown were two favorite things to do, and the bright colors and festive atmosphere were something that I will always enjoy and cherish. Beautiful “papel picado,” chopped paper cut into intricate designs, sugar skulls, marigolds, and candles are just a few of the symbols and decorations that make this occasion so lovely to witness. If you haven’t heard of this day or would like to learn a little bit more about it, read on!
What Is Day of the Dead?
Day of the Dead, or “Día de los Muertos” in Spanish, is a Mexican holiday celebrated on November 1st and 2nd. These dates may sound familiar because they follow Halloween! But don’t be mistaken – Day of the Dead is an altogether different event.
The Meaning Behind the Celebration
This holiday isn’t about being scared of ghosts and ghouls; it’s about celebrating life and honoring the memory of family and friends who have passed away. It’s a time for people to remember and connect with their loved ones who are no longer with them.
In Mexican culture, it’s believed that the spirits of the deceased return to visit their families during these days. Families create colorful and elaborate altars, known as “ofrendas,” in their homes and cemeteries to welcome the spirits. These ofrendas are decorated with the deceased person’s favorite food, drinks, pictures, and special items to help them on their journey back to the living world. Below you can see an ofrenda my son’s school created for Theodor Geisel, aka Dr. Seuss! This was a fun way of teaching the children about the holiday and the ways the different elements bring meaning to this celebration of life.
Sugar Skulls and Marigolds
One of the most recognizable symbols of Day of the Dead is the sugar skull. Sugar skulls are colorful, edible decorations made from sugar and are often decorated with icing in beautiful, intricate designs. They are placed on the ofrendas or given as gifts to friends and family.
Marigold flowers, called “cempasúchil” in Spanish, are another important part of the celebration. They are believed to help guide the spirits back to the world of the living. You can often see these vibrant orange and yellow flowers adorning the ofrendas and cemeteries.
Face Painting and Costumes
During Day of the Dead, many people paint their faces to look like skulls, which is called “calavera” makeup. Instead of being spooky, these painted skulls are colorful and festive. People also wear bright and beautiful costumes, often dressing up as “Catrinas” or “Catrines,” which are fancy and elegant skeletons.
Traditional Food and Drinks
Food is a big part of this celebration. Families prepare special dishes and share the favorite foods of their departed loved ones. You might find things like tamales, pan de muerto (a sweet bread), and delicious sugar or chocolate skulls. To wash it all down, they have a special drink called “atole,” which is like a warm, sweet, and comforting porridge.
Visiting the Cemetery
Families often go to the cemetery during Day of the Dead to visit the graves of their loved ones. They clean the tombstones, decorate them with marigold flowers, and spend time with the spirits by telling stories and reminiscing about the good times they shared.
Day of the Dead is a beautiful celebration of life and memory. It’s a time for people to come together, honor their loved ones, and remember the good times they shared. So, next time you see colorful sugar skulls or marigold flowers, remember the magical world of Day of the Dead and the love that connects the living and the departed. It’s a celebration that reminds us that, even though our loved ones are no longer with us, they are never truly gone as long as we keep their memory alive in our hearts and minds.
If you’re interested in learning more about this special day, there are many beautiful books celebrating Día de Muertos and honoring this special tradition. Some lovely choices are “Mi Familia, Celebrating the Day of the Dead” by Camíla Hernandez, and “Día de Los Muertos,” by Roseanne Greenfield Thong.
Have you ever attended a Día de Muertos celebration? Are there any special books about this tradition that you and your family have enjoyed?
Wishing you a wonderful, colorful and happy rest of the week!!
-Colorful Swans Press 🦢
Colorful Swans Press 