Celebrate el Día de los Muertos with San Mateo County Libraries!
Día de los Muertos is Spanish for Day of the Dead. When thinking of Día de los Muertos, images may arise from the country of Mexico—however, many other countries throughout the world celebrate Day of the Dead with their own unique traditions stemming from Indigenous practices.
This celebration occurs during late October and early November, when families remember their deceased loved ones with food, drinks and celebration! Altars are made and decorated with the deceased person’s favorite food, photographs, personal objects and much more. Join in the celebrations by checking out what your local library has going on for el Día de los Muertos!
Traditional Copal Wood Alebrije Painting
Come discover traditional Oaxacan folk art and celebrate el Día de los Muertos by decorating your own alebrije made of copal in this immersive, hands-on workshop offered by Balam Arts. Alebrijes are brightly colored wooden figures of fantastical animals!
Paper Marigolds
Create beautiful marigold flowers, also known as flor de cempasúchil. These flowers are thought to guide spirits back to their family and friends during celebrations.
Mini Ofrendas
Participants of el Día de los Muertos offer the spirit food, drinks and personal objects by bestowing ofrendas, or offerings. Join local artist Elizabeth Jiménez Montelongo as she shares the history and the Indigenous roots of the tradition and make your own altar.
Calaveras
Sugar skulls are one of the widely recognized aspects of this important holiday. Discover the history of the delicious, edible skulls and their significance during these celebrations. Programming available for adults and youth and their families!
Una Ofrenda Musical
Join Cascada de Flores as they take you through a bilingual, magical journey exploring this tradition through dance, music, and personal stories. Feel free to participate in this exploration of el Día de los Muertos or enjoy the performance.
Come discover the beauty and cultural significance of el Dia de los Muertos with San Mateo County Libraries!
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