Flowers, sweets, fruit and drinks are placed on altars each year, October 31 to November 2, to welcome the return of loved ones to the land of the living. Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is celebrated in Mexico—and other places—by families in remembrance of the life and legacy of their ancestors. During this time, families bring ofrendas (offerings) such as skeleton-shaped candy and pan de muerto (sweet bread) to the cemetery and share stories about their dearly departed. Festivals, parades, music and costumes are all additional ways people honor the memory of their ancestors.
Check out these books to learn more about the traditions, foods and history of this holiday.
Día De Los Muertos: Gather some flowers, share something sweet—a story or a treat—and share this picture book with your little one.
Funny Bones: Los Calaveras (The Skeletons) sure are hilarious! Learn about the artist Jose Guadalupe Posada, best known for the skeleton drawings associated with Día de los Muertos.
Clatter Bash! Honored by gifts left by their gravesites, the skeletons eat, dance and revel in merriment.
Calavera Abecedario: Papier-mache skeletons introduce young readers to the celebration.
Celebrating Day of the Dead: Explore the origins, history and customs of this holiday.
How do you honor the memory of your ancestors?
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