skulls

candy

celebration

death

remembering

(Day of the Dead)

What is it?

Celebrated… Throughout Mexico, the Southwestern

States, and Spain.

Purpose… To communicate that even though

love ones are deceased, they are still in the hearts of those they left behind.

It is considered a time of joy, because it is known that they are surrounded by loved ones both living and dead.

When is it celebrated? November 1st and 2nd.

The 1st is considered “Dia de Las Angelitos” (Day to remember children who died)

The 2nd is for all who are deceased. The traditional day for celebrating.

How is it Celebrated?

Pictures of the deceased are placed on alters along with their favorite foods and drinks.

Candles are placed around, lighting their way home.

Soap and water is left out for the deceased to freshen up after their trip back.

Commonly celebrated by going to the grave of the deceased and having their favorite foods and drinks there with them.

The guest of honor is…the deceased!

History Often compared to Halloween

NOTHING like it!

Began as an Aztec celebration and was celebrated in August.

Skeletons and skulls were symbols of death and rebirth.

Death was embraced instead of fearing it. Considered moving on to a higher level of consciousness.

When the Spaniards converted the Aztecs, they incorporated the symbols of the crucifix and the devil into the celebration and moved it to November 2nd.

YUMMY!!!!!

Calaveras de Azucar (Sugar Skulls)

Pan de Muertos

(Bread of the Dead)

-traditionally baked in Mexico

-eaten at the alter or grave site to offer nourishment for the departed soul

-hidden prizes…crowned king and queen!

-common among the children

-decorated them

YouTube Clip

References http://www-lib.usc.edu.Info/Boeck/Dead/Day http:edb518ea.edb.utexas.edu/cyberraza/

muertos.html http://www/[ib;oc/oastate/edi/rjslvad/scmfa

q/muertos.html http://ted.ele.madison.tec.wi.us/dead/hetml Meyerson, Allen R. Caressing Life on the

Day of the Dead, “The New York Times. November 4, 1995. P9.