Areal Photo by Carlos Aranda on Unsplash

Dia de los Muertos—the Day of the Dead—is a lively Mexican holiday that draws on indigenous and European traditions. ... Assured that the dead would be insulted by mourning or sadness, Dia de los Muertos celebrates the lives of the deceased with food, drink, parties, and activities the dead enjoyed in life.

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. Whether 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's 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 most likely 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 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. 

Photo by Peter Van Sande on Unsplash

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Photo by Eduaro Dorantes on Unsplash

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Grupo Nauhcampa at the Center for the Arts dancing for Dia de Los Muertos "Danza Tolteca Chichimeca de Concheros"