Imagine, for a moment, streets flooding with vivacious, painted faces, transformed into unique skulls with colorful flowers, patterns, and jewels. Animated garments glide and twirl around alters lovingly crafted with food, music in memoriam of loved ones. This is Día de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead.
Day of the Dead is celebrated from October 31st through November 2nd. The origin can be traced to the Aztec festival honoring the goddess Mictecacihuatl, the lady of the Dead.
Altars (ofrendas) are a vital part of Día de los Muertos tradition. Families build ofrendas in their homes and public spaces. Great care is taken to prepare special foods and pan de muerto (bread of the dead), photos, candles, skulls, decorations, trinkets, beverages, music, and other attractions are used to ensure the departed souls’ recognition and arrival.
Students in 2nd grade at Marylyn Burns Elementary celebrate Día de los Muertos as they decorate their hallway with painted skulls and make their own alters to remember someone special. These are great examples of students integrating cultural awareness into everyday writing.
5 Activities for Elementary, Middle School, and High School
1. Newsela: 4 Day of the Dead Activities
2. Brain Pop: Day of the Dead
3. ESOL Courses
4. Florida Literacy Blog
5. 9 DIY Ways to Celebrate Day of the Dead With Kids
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