Grades 3–5 · Learn the traditions and words of Día de los Muertos (Nov 1–2).

Día de los Muertos Flip Cards

Día de los Muertos is a holiday to honor loved ones who have died, celebrated on November 1 and 2.

An ofrenda is a home altar built with photos, candles, and favorite foods to remember the deceased.

Cempasúchil are orange marigolds used in the celebration for their bright color and scent, guiding spirits home.

Calaveras are decorated skulls, often made of sugar, representing the joy of remembering the deceased.

Pan de muerto is a sweet bread baked for Día de los Muertos, often shaped like bones.

Papel picado is colorful paper with cut-out designs used to decorate for the holiday.

Día de los Muertos is a joyful remembrance of the dead, while Halloween is focused on costumes and trick-or-treating.

How is Día de los Muertos different from Halloween?

Día de los Muertos has roots in Indigenous traditions and is recognized by UNESCO as part of cultural heritage.