Blog

Día de los Muertos, Day of the Dead

Carla Maia, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice (DEIJ) Coordinator
"Día de los Muertos," also known as the "Day of the Dead," is a Mexican holiday celebrated on November 1st and 2nd each year. It is a vibrant and colorful celebration that honors deceased loved ones and is a fusion of indigenous Aztec beliefs and Catholicism. The holiday is most closely associated with Mexico but is also observed in other Latin American countries and by Mexican communities around the world.
  • Some traditions of Dia de los Muertos include: creating altares (Ofrendas), decorating sugar skulls (Calaveras de Azúcar), making and eating Pan de Muerto ("Bread of the Dead"), face painting, and traditional music and dances, such as the "Danza de los Viejitos" (Dance of the Old Men). 

  • Families often create altars in their homes, cemeteries, and public spaces to honor and remember their deceased relatives and friends. These altars are adorned with photographs of the deceased, candles, marigold flowers (known as cempasúchil), incense, and various offerings. The altars also include the deceased person's favorite foods, beverages, and mementos.

  • Día de los Muertos is not a sad or mournful occasion but a joyful and colorful celebration of life and death. It is a time for families to come together, remember their loved ones, and celebrate the continuity of life and the enduring connection between the living and the deceased. This unique holiday has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
Back

All Are Welcome! (Anti-Discriminatory Policy)

Ecole Bilingue de Berkeley does not exclude from participation in, deny the benefits of, or subject any individual to discrimination on the basis of race, nationality, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, or religion. This policy applies to all programs, services, and facilities, including applications, admissions, and employment.