Day of the Dead

Santa Paula High School held its fourth annual Day of the Dead celebration on November 2nd. In past years, MEChA and Folklorico have collaborated to put on the celebration, although this year MEChA took the lead in organizing the event. The event is an opportunity to showcase student art and Folklorico dancers as well as to raise money for campus clubs through food sales.

El Dia de los Muertos or Day of the Dead is celebrated in Mexico and other Latin American countries between October 31st and November 2nd. Although the Day of the Dead falls near Halloween, it is a very different holiday. The focus of Halloween is evil and scary spirits that people try their best to avoid. The celebration of the Day of the Dead welcomes the spirits of departed friends and relatives.

Although the Day of the Dead honors loved ones and friends who have died, it is a festive occasion, not a scary or gloomy one like Halloween. Sometimes all night feasts are held in graveyards with decorated tomb stones and people celebrating through the night.

In traditions thousands of years old, dating back to the ancient cultures of Mexico such as the Olmec, Toltec, Mayan and Aztec, masks were made to honor the dead. These masks are often stylized skulls or Calaveras representing life and rebirth. During the Day of the Dead, masks and face painting add to the festive atmosphere of the celebration. The masks used to decorate the central courtyards during the Santa Paula High School celebration were made by Ms. Renteria's AVAD and EL classes. In addition to the masks, the courtyard was decorated with papel picado made by Ms. Madrigal's students.

During the Day of the Dead, families put out alters with favorite foods and objects that were special to their departed loved ones. Special bread called pan de muertos (bread of the dead) and candy skulls are also common. The Spirits consume the "essence" of the food while the actual food is eaten by the family and friends of the departed. During this year's celebration, pan de muertos was provided by MEChA.

The dances (Danza Azteca) at the noontime celebration were performed by Huitzilin iuan Xochitl (Hummingbird & Flower), Naui Olin (4 Movement) along with independent dancers, including our own Mr. Pinedo and Mr. Vega. In pre-Columbian times the dead were honored twice a year with dances and celebrations. When Spain conquered California and Mexico, these ancient customs merged with Spanish customs and became part of the Day of the Dead festivities.

Thanks to Mr. Torres, Ms. Renteria and Mr. Vega for organizing the celebration and providing information for this article!