For those who need more than visions of sugar plums dancing in their heads for holiday flare, Day of the Dead offers candied skulls and dancing skeletons.
For those who need more than visions of sugar plums dancing in their heads for holiday flare, Day of the Dead offers candied skulls and dancing skeletons.
Also known as Dia de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead celebrations in Mexico can be traced back to a pre-Columbian past. Rituals celebrating the deaths of ancestors were observed by these civilizations perhaps for thousands of years.
They believe the gates of heaven are opened at midnight Oct. 31, and the spirits of all deceased children are allowed to reunite with their families for 24 hours.
On Nov. 2, the spirits of the adults come down to enjoy the festivities that are prepared for them.
The “sugary skulls” and dancing skeletons that go hand in hand with the holiday are not meant to be creepy or morbid. The lively colors and glittery decorations used are cheerful for a reason.
Now, you have a chance to immerse yourself in this spirited holiday tradition.
Join instructor Kathleen Kam for “Day of the Dead Crafts” from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday at Volcano Art Center’s Niaulani Campus. Cost for the workshop is $60.
To register, call VAC at 967-8222 or register online at www.volcanoartcenter.org.
Attendees are asked to bring a pencil, scissors, assorted permanent color markers and white glue.
During this engaging workshop, participants will learn how to make a bas-relief calavera, a.k.a. skeleton, or a decorative skull using air dry paper clay that’s formed over a wire framework then baked. Prepare to have fun with your imagination. No experience is needed.