History:  This ancient holiday began as a day of thanks for the harvest. It became a time put aside to remember our ancestors and people we love who have died.  On the first day, relatives put flowers on graveyards or in vases with cards. Then they create an alter somewhere in the house. These alters are not places of worship. They serve the same purpose as a scrapbook or a photo album. Pictures of the departed, along with favorite loved objects and other mementoes are placed on the alter. The rest of this day is spent making the favorite foods of this person (or persons.)  On the second day, families have big celebrations at their homes. They serve the food they made the day before. They eat candies shaped like skeletons. Friends stop by and people dance and sing. This is a very happy holiday. On the third day, the holiday expands to the town. There may be parades and floats and costumed characters. Coffins are carried that have people in them dressed in skeleton outfits. Many superstitions have been added over the years, but for the most part, this ancient holiday is as it always was - a time of remembrance and love. So, don't be afraid of the Day of the Dead. This is a happy holiday. To learn more about Day of the Dead (Dia de los Muertos), click here: Day of the Dead, what is it? For Kids   Day of the Dead, what is it?  Egg Shaker For Teachers Free Presentations in PowerPoint format Day of the Dead Mini-Unit   Neat classroom activities for Day of the Dead Art - Make a paper-mache skull Introduction to Mexican Art and Culture: "Day of the Dead"  Free Clip Art  All Rights Reserved    Clip Art Credit: Phillip Martin Have a great year!