By: Mia Volpert

Many people this fall have been celebrating their favorite holiday, Halloween. Spooky decorations, costumes and candy have been the center of attention for the last month. Springfield High School students, however, have shifted their focus to something different–  learning about the holiday el Día de los Muertos.

The Day of the Dead (el Día de los Muertos) is a Mexican holiday where families  welcome back the souls of their deceased relatives for a reunion that has food, drink and celebration. Although Halloween and el Día de los Muertos share characteristics, they are different in their own ways.

While families celebrate the holiday, it is believed the border between the spirit world and the real world has a bridge connecting them. This holiday, which is celebrated mostly in Mexico, is on November 1 and 2. On Nov. 1, according to tradition, the gates of heaven open for childrens´ spirits to come and visit their families. Adult spirits then can do the same on Nov. 2. During this time, the souls of the dead come alive and return to the living world to feast, celebrate, party and play music with their families. The living family members welcome them with their favorite foods and other offerings to honor them. Families leave these offerings on what is called an ofrenda built in their homes. 

Springfield High School students learned more about the ofrenda by building their own in Spanish Club. Brendan Reichert, a Spanish teacher, taught these students the proper way to celebrate this incredible holiday. 

Students used proper decorations on this ofrenda to welcome back Frida Kahlo, a brilliant Mexican painter. Kahlo’s ofrenda consisted of a photo of her, marigolds, candles, skulls and a variety of favorite foods to welcome her back. 

Springfield High students learned about a new cultural holiday and had a fun time celebrating it. It is important that students expand their experiences to learn how other cultures  celebrate holidays and traditions. To learn more about el Día de los Muertos, reach out to Señor Reichert– and while you are at it, check out the stunning ofrenda across from the main office. You won’t be disappointed! 

Photos courtesy of Brooke Lyons