Day of the Dead for Kids! (Overview with Review) | Mi Camino Spanish

What is Dia de Muertos, or Day of the Dead?

A national tradition in Mexico that celebrates the lives of those who have passed on.

When is Day of the Dead celebrated in Mexico?

On the first and second of November every year.

True or false: Day of the Dead is just like Halloween.

False.

Why do people decorate altars in their homes during Day of the Dead?

To honor the deceased and welcome their souls.

What is the name of the paper used to decorate the altars?

Papel picado.

What are the names of the traditional sweets found on the altars?

Pan de muerto and calaveras de azúcar (sugar skulls).

True or false: Pan de muerto is a sweet bread filled with symbolism.

True.

True or false: Sugar skulls represent that cookies are full of sugar.

False; sugar skulls represent a departed soul.

Why are marigolds used near the altars during Day of the Dead?

Their fragrance and bright color are thought to attract the souls of the dead.

True or false: People paint their faces white like a skull to scare each other.

False.

What does the monarch butterfly symbolize during Day of the Dead?

It symbolizes the souls of the dead traveling to visit their loved ones.

True or false: Day of the Dead is a sad and solemn tradition.

False; it is a festive celebration of life.

What do the round shape of pan de muerto and the ball on the top represent?

The circle of life and death, and the skull of the deceased.

What does the delicate papel picado represent?

The fragility of life.

What items do people bring to the cemetery as part of the celebration?

Flowers, candles, photos, and the favorite foods of the deceased.