Celebrating Día de los Muertos at Tierra Encantada: Embracing Cultural Learning
At Tierra Encantada, we believe in the power of celebrating different cultures and introducing children to traditions from around the world. One of the most meaningful holidays we celebrate is Día de los Muertos—the Day of the Dead. It’s a tradition that has historically been celebrated across Mexico and Latin America, but today is celebrated globally with a bend of cultural rituals and modern-day festivities.
What is Día de los Muertos?
Día de los Muertos is a celebration focused on remembrance of lost loved ones.
Families pay homage to their deceased relatives by inviting their spirits back for a brief reunion filled with food, drink, music, and love. The holiday is a unique combination of indigenous traditions and Catholicism brought by the Spanish colonizers. It’s a time to celebrate the lives of those who’ve passed, reflecting on the joy and memories they brought during their lifetime.
Did You Know…
Día de los Muertos is celebrated over multiple days! This two-day holiday is celebrated on November 1st and 2nd, with distinct meanings for each day.
November 1st – Día de los Angelitos (Day of the Little Angels): This day honors children who have passed away.
November 2nd – Día de los Difuntos (All Souls Day): This day focuses on remembering and celebrating deceased adults.
The Significance of the Ofrenda
One of the most important traditions of Día de los Muertos is the ofrenda, or altar. Families set up these altars at home or in cemeteries, carefully arranging offerings that include photographs, favorite foods, sugar skulls, marigolds, and candles. Each element on the altar holds special meaning:
- Photos represent the loved one being remembered.
- Candles light the way for the spirits to find their way back to the living.
- Food and drink like pan de muerto (a traditional sweet bread) or favorite dishes are offered to nourish the spirits after their long journey.
Marigolds and Sugar Skulls: Symbols of Life and Death
Two of the most iconic symbols of Día de los Muertos are marigolds and sugar skulls.
- Marigolds (cempasúchil) are known as the flower of the dead. Their vibrant orange and yellow colors are believed to guide spirits back to the land of the living with their bright hue and strong scent.
- Sugar skulls (calaveras) are decorated with intricate designs and bright colors. They represent the beauty of the cycle of life and death, serving as a reminder that death is not something to fear, but a natural part of existence.
How to Celebrate Día de los Muertos at Home
Watch “Coco” Together
Disney Pixar’s Coco is a fun way to dive into the magic of Día de los Muertos! With its colorful animation and heartwarming story, it brings the holiday’s traditions to life!
Read Books about Día de los Muertos
Learn more about this holiday through books such as:
Create Your Own Ofrenda
A simple way to celebrate at home is by making a personal ofrenda. Find a small table or shelf and decorate it with:
- Photos of your loved ones
- Candles
- Marigolds or any flowers available
- A glass of water (to refresh the spirits)
- Small items that remind you of them (like their favorite food or mementos)
Craft time
- Skull Face Masks
- Sugar Skull Painting
Keeping the spirit alive
Día de los Muertos is all about celebrating life, cherishing memories, and honoring those who came before us. Whether through films, crafts, or building an ofrenda, these traditions offer a meaningful way to stay connected with our loved ones, and connect with cultures around the world. This year, we encourage you to bring the magic of Día de los Muertos into your home!
