Thailand and Mexico have unique traditions to honour and remember loved ones who have passed away. While their customs are different, they share meaningful similarities:
- They show love and respect for those who are no longer with us.
- They help people reflect on the lives of those who mattered most.
- They remind us that love continues, even after someone is gone.
Día de Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a vibrant Mexican tradition celebrated across the country. On this special day, families create colourful altars called ofrendas, decorated with marigold flowers, candles, photos, and the favourite foods of their loved ones. It is believed that for one night, the spirits of those who have passed return to join the celebration — a joyful moment to honour life and memory.
At school, students in Year 3 and Year 4 joined the celebration by decorating Calaveritas. Through this creative activity, they practised their Spanish vocabulary, revising colours, shapes (such as hearts, circles, flowers, and tears), and body parts (eyes, teeth, nose). They also enjoyed a traditional Mexican song that helps people remember those who have gone.
As an extension activity, Year 6 students followed a step-by-step tutorial to draw La Catrina — a fancy skeleton lady often seen during Día de Muertos. With her elegant hat and dress, La Catrina is a powerful symbol in Mexican culture, reminding everyone that death is a natural part of life.
Through these activities, students not only learned about a beautiful tradition but also celebrated the importance of memory, love, and cultural understanding.
