It’s about that time of the year where college students enjoy getting dressed up and going to parties and children walk door to door in the cold for tricks or treats. As the president of Global Unity Club where  we tried to inform the students on campus about the different cultures that happened around the world. I want to invite you to our Day of the dead event that is happening this Thursday at 9pm in the Latour.

Día de los Muertos (The Day of the Dead) is a traditional Mexican holiday which begins on October 31st and culminates on November 2nd; when the souls of the deceased are believed to return to visit the living. This holiday is celebrated with parades, gatherings, and the preparation of the altars to the dead. These designed are to encourage these visits by honoring their souls.

The origins of the tradition can be traced back over 3,000 years to ancient Mesoamerican civilisations. The best known symbol of this celebration is the mischievous skull (calavera) or skeleton, which inspires costumes and decorations. Other symbols include the marigold and the monarch butterfly, a native insect which arrives in Mexico for the winter around 1st November each year.

Whilst the holiday is uniquely Mexican, its customs have spread widely throughout South and Central America. The spirit of the holiday is one of celebration rather than of mourning. With that in mind our event will have different stations where you can paint skulls, decorate cookies, face painting and a photo booth. We are also having a raffle to win five baskets. Last but not least we will have performances from the dance, cheer and step team.

Hope to see you all there this Thursday until next time!