Spanish Club hosts Día de los Muertos

The CMU Spanish Club hosted a Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration October 29 to help students learn more about this meaningful holiday, traditionally observed on November 2. Día de los Muertos is celebrated across various countries in Central and South America, though the most iconic festivities take place in Mexico.

Frida Ferrusquia, the Spanish Club's vice president from Mexico City, led an engaging presentation, sharing the history and significance of the holiday. She guided students through stories of vibrant street parades, explained the symbolism behind calaveras (skulls) and La Catrina (one of the names for death), and introduced them to ofrendas (altars) and calaveritas (poems). Throughout her talk, she emphasized the true essence of Día de los Muertos—honoring and remembering loved ones who have passed.

After the presentation, participants were invited to view a beautifully arranged ofrenda displayed outside the Department of History, World Languages, and Cultures office. This display offered students a firsthand look at a typical altar setup, with photos, candles, and marigolds. Attendees then gathered to enjoy Pan de Muerto, a traditional bread for the celebration, along with other Hispanic snacks, sparking lively conversations about the holiday’s traditions and meanings.

The Spanish Club is thrilled to bring cultural awareness to Día de los Muertos and share the rich, deep-rooted traditions behind it. Thank you to everyone who joined us for this memorable event!