Nov. 1 marked the annual Spanish holiday Day of the Dead. Although this holiday may come off as being dark and sorrowful, it is really quite the opposite and is meant to be one of love, remembrance, and celebration.
To recognize and inform students of the meaning of this special day in Spanish culture, Penn-Trafford Spanish teachers organized activities in the media center that reflects Spanish tradition.
Spanish teacher Patrick Flynn said for those who haven’t heard about “The Day of the Dead” that it is It’s very different from Halloween despite the similar time of year.
“It is a take on death that is not focused on the scariness and uncertainty, and more on the respect towards those who have passed on,” Flynn said. “Remembering those people, loving them, and keeping that memory alive not to say that sometimes there’s nothing sad. but it’s not typical about being sad it’s about celebrating.”
Face painted students were a common sight around the school halls this day, as students were encouraged to take part in the Spanish tradition. The meaning behind the painted skulls are to make ancestors more comfortable coming back to visit on this special night of remembrance. Activities for students included the creation of sugar skulls, and the making of papel picado which are colorful decorations with many different patterns.
Some students also made ofrendas, which are altars/ shrines made for the dead to honor them and welcome them back with objects from the deceased’s life. Students also participated in various games, and watched Day of the Dead related Movies like “Coco,” and “Book of Life” to give students a visual of the holiday.
The ultimate celebration, however, is held in the media center. Students were given the day off class and were provided snacks including churros, nachos, hot chocolate and lemonade to give students a glimpse of what the day is like.
This holiday continues to grow in popularity, and each year more cities host parades and parties.
“Sometimes towns will have parties throughout the night with bands and fireworks in the cemeteries which is a very different take on our Halloween version of a cemetery and its creepiness, instead its filled with life,” Flynn said.
Flynn added that he hopes that the students gain a few aspects to take with them from the whole experience. He said that, “Kids obtain an awareness of different cultures, can question other culture’s belief systems, and instead of saying that some are stupid or weird, they get to open their heart and mind on a new way of thinking. I think it helps us bridge cultures a little bit.”
