Saturday, November 1, 2008

Dia De Muertos & Halloween


Friday was a double celebration at kids’ school (preschool to 12th grade) in which parents were invited.

  • There were alters built for Dia De Muertos (Day of the Dead.)
  • Most of the kids and teachers were in fabulous costumes. There were several costume contests for the preschool and elementary students where audience cheers determined the winner. It was fun and the kids really enjoyed it. ( It is interesting to note that in the US you would never have a contest like this for young kids – the US is way too PC and all about everyone being a winner which I do not think is best for our kids – just my opinion.)

  • There was a stage set up with at least 2 hours of performances: music, dancing, mimes, plays, clowns, etc. I was really impressed with the quality of entertainment which was mostly the Upper School students.

  • Tables were set up in the courtyard by parents selling used clothing, toys and baked goods to benefit local orphanage.

  • A haunted house was erected using giant tarps. A pumpkin carving contest took place with each grade making an entry.

  • Kids gathered in small groups to play Tazos (more on this another post)

What struck me was the festive, relaxed, safe and happy atmosphere. The kids roamed here and there and back again. The students were very, very comfortable in this mucho important establishment – their school. So this made me comfortable.

Oldest Son and Youngest Son did not go trick-or-treating this year. We did not miss it at all.

Below is 2nd place Dracula Pumkin by 3rd grade (Oldest Son's Class) and 1st place Eyeball Pumpkin. The 3rd place Witch Pumpkin on far left of table is from Kinder3 (Youngest Son's Class.)



3 comments:

Steve Cotton said...

I have never been a big fan of Halloween. As my neighborhood has aged, I have had fewer and fewer trick or treaters. Last night was different. Many of my neighbors have recently arrived from other countries. Their young children were enthusiastic trick or treaters -- and they all loved meeting my dog. I thought of your two sons -- and how they have taken to Mexican culture. There is a lesson there for all of us -- as we start to get stuck in our ways, simply because they are our ways.

Theresa in Mèrida said...

I think that being a kid in Mexico must be a wonderful experience. I have never seen so many happy,confident and respectful children as I have here.
That eyeball pumpkin was pretty scary.
regards,
Theresa

Frankly Ronda said...

S - It was fun to explore and learn about how our region of Mexico celebrated these holidays. Any event through the eyes of a child is magical.

T - Our expereinces with the Mexican children have all been positive so far and I agree with you. I also agree thta that eyeball pumpkin is creative and creepy!