Día de los Muertos: Honoring Life, Love, and Legacy
At Seattle Amistad School, our annual Día de Muertos celebration is more than a cultural event — it’s a heartfelt journey of remembrance, community, and joy. This special day gave our students, families, and staff the opportunity to come together and honor loved ones who have passed, while learning the deep meanings behind each beautiful element of this sacred Mexican tradition.
The Meaning Behind the Symbols
Every part of a traditional ofrenda (altar) tells a story.
Cempasúchil (Marigolds): Known as the flower of the dead, their bright orange petals and distinct scent are believed to guide spirits back to the world of the living.
The Bridge: Symbolizes the connection between both worlds — the living and the departed — reminding us that love transcends time and space.
Offerings (Ofrendas): Families place photos, candles, food, and personal items to welcome their loved ones’ spirits home.
Pan de Muerto: A sweet, round bread often topped with shapes representing bones — it’s a symbol of the cycle of life and death, shared to honor and celebrate those we remember.
Elements of the Altar: The ofrenda traditionally includes representations of earth, wind, water, and fire — connecting us to nature and the essence of life itself.
A Celebration Full of Joy
This year’s celebration featured delicious tacos and quesadillas, a vibrant “calavera” face painting station, and moving performances by our talented students:
“El Latido de mi Corazón” by our 1st and 2nd graders, led by Maestra Thania
A touching duet of “Corona” performed by Marianna and Phoenix from Maestra Francesa’s class
Honoring Our Loved Ones
Perhaps the most beautiful part of the day was the collective ofrenda, filled with photos of the many loved ones who continue to inspire our school community. Each image told a story — a grandparent, a parent, a friend — all part of the Amistad family’s tapestry of memory and love.
Through music, color, food, and togetherness, we were reminded that Día de Muertos is not about mourning — it’s about celebrating life, love, and the connections that never fade.