It’s National Hispanic Heritage Month, which is observed from September 15 to October 15 each year! On October 5, we celebrated Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, as part of Canton’s Family Fun Weekend.
Traditionally, Día de los Muertos is celebrated on November 1 & 2, so we are continuing our celebration all month long!
When you stop into the museum, you can participate in decorating the ofrenda, making traditional papel picado, learning how to make calaveritas, and on some Wednesdays, you can also get your face painted in “La Catrina”-style.
Decorate the ofrenda in the Silas Wright Historic House:
An ofrenda, or altar, is a traditional offering that many people make in their homes to honor their loved ones who have died. Every ofrenda includes the four elements: water, wind, earth, and fire. Water is left in a picture so that spirits can quench their thirst. Papel picado represents the wind. Earth is represented by food, especially bread. Candles are often left in the form of a cross to represent the cardinal directions, so the spirits can find their way. The most common ofrendas have three levels to represent heaven, earth, and the underworld. With more elaborate ofrendas, you can find up to seven levels.
Make Calaveritas:
Calavaritas, or sugar skulls, are a traditional Día de los Muertos decor made out of sugar. These are used as “offerings” in the altars, commemorating the life of our loved ones. You can make Calaveritas out of clay or traditional sugar.
Play Traditional Games, like Loteria:
Loteria, or “Lottery,” is a traditional Mexican board game of chance, similar to Bingo! The game originated in Italy in the 15th Century and was brought to New Spain (modern Mexico) in 1769. In the beginning, Loteria was a hobby of the upper classes, but eventually, it became a tradition at Mexican fairs. Loteria will be set up in the North Country Gallery for you to play.
Make Traditional Papel Picado:
Papel picado, or traditional paper banners, is a traditional Mexican decorative craft made by cutting elaborate designs into sheets of tissue paper. Traditionally used to decorate altars for Día de los Muertos. Throughout the month we will be adding papel picado visitors create to our decor in the Silas Wright Historic House.
Celebrate with “La Catrina” Face Painting:
“La Catrina” face paint is a traditional act of respect and remembrance. It honors the members of deceased family members and friends, as well as historical figures and ancestors. The intricate makeup serves as a tribute to their legacy. On select Wednesdays throughout the month of October, you can get your face painted in the “La Catrina“-style for a small donation.