Students gathered together Tuesday to celebrate the Mexican holiday, Dia de los Muertos, by painting sugar skulls, creating altars for their loved ones, face painting and sharing traditional foods.
Dia de los Muertos, also known as the Day of the Dead, started at noon at the Cultural Unity and Engagement Center (CUE). Paper flower arts and crafts and free chili were provided at the event. A brief presentation on the history and importance of the holiday was also given by a member of the Sigma Lambda Beta International Fraternity.
Later in the evening, students gathered in front of Folsom Field and lit candles in remembrance of their loved ones. From there, they marched to the C4C dining center where the celebration of the dead continued. A large altar and a mariachi band were present for the evening.
Unlike with American culture, Mexico honors the dead by celebrating them instead of mourning them. It is a time for them to be happy and reconnect with those who have passed. The holiday usually lasts two days. The first day is dedicated to children and infants. The second is dedicated to teenagers and adults.
For many students, it was a time to connect with their heritage and with others.
Contact CU Independent News Staff Writer Kristin Oh at kristin.oh@colorado.edu.
