DIa de los muertos

When is the Day of the Dead?

• November 5th

• November 3rd

• November 2nd

• November 1st

Answer explanation

The Day of the Dead is celebrated on November 1st and 2nd. November 1st honors deceased children, while November 2nd is for adults, making both dates significant in this traditional Mexican holiday.

What is an ofrenda?

• A popular Mexican dish

• An ofrenda is a traditional altar for honoring deceased loved ones.

• A type of traditional dance

• A decorative piece of furniture

Answer explanation

An ofrenda is a traditional altar used in Mexican culture to honor and remember deceased loved ones, especially during the Day of the Dead celebrations. This distinguishes it from dishes, dances, or furniture.

What is a calavara?

• A decorative skull used in Mexican culture, especially during the Day of the Dead.

• A style of painting unique to Mexico.

• A popular Mexican dish made with corn.

• A type of traditional Mexican dance.

Answer explanation

A calavera is a decorative skull that is an important symbol in Mexican culture, particularly during the Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) celebrations, where it honors deceased loved ones.

What do the candles do during day of the dead?

• Candles are lit to guide the spirits of the deceased.

• Candles are used to celebrate birthdays.

• Candles are placed on the altar for decoration.

• Candles are blown out to make wishes.

Answer explanation

During Day of the Dead, candles are lit to guide the spirits of the deceased back to the altars, helping them find their way home. This practice honors and welcomes the spirits of loved ones who have passed away.

What is the significance of marigold flowers during the Day of the Dead?

• They are used to make garlands for weddings.

• They are believed to attract the spirits of the deceased.

• They are used as a symbol of wealth and prosperity.

• They are given as gifts to friends and family.

Answer explanation

Marigold flowers are significant during the Day of the Dead as they are believed to attract the spirits of the deceased, guiding them back to the world of the living. This connection makes them a vital part of the celebration.

What is pan de muerto?

• A type of bread traditionally baked for the Day of the Dead.

• A spicy Mexican soup served during festivals.

• A traditional Mexican dance performed in cemeteries.

• A type of candle used in Day of the Dead altars.

Answer explanation

Pan de muerto is a traditional Mexican bread specifically baked for the Day of the Dead, symbolizing the cycle of life and death. It is often decorated with bone-shaped dough to honor deceased loved ones.

What is the purpose of papel picado in Day of the Dead celebrations?

• To serve as a tablecloth for the feast.

• To decorate the altar and represent the fragility of life.

• To be used as a wrapping for gifts.

• To be worn as a costume during parades.

Answer explanation

Papel picado is used to decorate altars during Day of the Dead celebrations, symbolizing the fragility of life. Its delicate design reflects the transient nature of existence, making it a meaningful addition to the festivities.

What is the purpose of sugar skulls during the Day of the Dead?

• To be used as a sweet treat for children.

• To represent the souls of the departed and honor them.

• To be used as a decoration for Christmas trees.

• To be given as gifts to newlyweds.

Answer explanation

Sugar skulls are a traditional symbol during the Day of the Dead, representing the souls of the departed. They are decorated and placed on altars to honor and remember loved ones who have passed away.

What is the role of incense in Day of the Dead celebrations?

• To create a festive atmosphere with its fragrance.

• To ward off evil spirits from the altars.

• To guide the spirits of the deceased to their altars.

• To be used as a form of entertainment during the celebrations.

Answer explanation

Incense plays a vital role in Day of the Dead celebrations by guiding the spirits of the deceased to their altars. Its fragrant smoke is believed to help the spirits find their way back to the offerings made for them.

What is the significance of the color purple in Day of the Dead altars?

• It represents the mourning and grief of the living.

• It symbolizes the wealth and prosperity of the deceased.

• It is used to attract butterflies to the altars.

• It is a traditional color for Mexican weddings.

Answer explanation

The color purple in Day of the Dead altars signifies the mourning and grief of the living, reflecting their remembrance of the deceased. It is a poignant reminder of loss and the emotional connection to those who have passed.