Dia de los Muertos
During this time of year, families across the globe gather together to remember and celebrate their lost loved ones. Dia de los Muertos or “Day of the Dead” is a Mexican holiday that has been celebrated for over many centuries. Right after the Celtic holiday Halloween, Day of the Dead starts from November 1st to the 2nd. In most regions of Mexico, November 1 honors children and infants, whereas deceased adults are honored on November 2.
People go to cemeteries to be with the souls of the departed and build private altars containing the favorite foods and beverages as well as photos and memorabilia of the departed. The intent is to encourage visits by the souls, so that the souls will hear the prayers and the comments of the living directed to them. Celebrations can take a humorous tone, as celebrants remember funny events and anecdotes about the departed. Every year at University High School we celebrate Day of the Dead. This year, the Spanish classes combined all of the students’ alters and placed them in the Tongva Springs for others to walk through and observe.

The alters ranged from small sizes to huge pieces. Many of them contained pan de muerto or “bread of the dead”, candy skulls, and the deceased’s favorite foods. The alters were created with very beautiful designs and art with bright colors. Some were built for loved ones and others were for famous people that have departed as well. Ms. Doman’s dance class had performed off to the side