Hispanic traditions for honoring ancestors will be shared through a collaborative series of programs and activities offered by the History Museum at the Castle and the Children’s Department of the Appleton Public Library.
On Saturday, October 26, both institutions will offer special family activities in celebration of Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead. The library will offer special programs and activities from October 14 through Nov. 4.
Celebrated in Latin America, particularly Mexico and Central America, Day of the Dead is a celebration to commemorate the lives of those who have passed away. Today, Day of the Dead has become a popular celebration displaying an element of Latino culture throughout the United States. Many traditional elements of the celebration remain unchanged. The event bears some similarity to the Catholic observances of All Saints Day and All Souls Day. In fact, a Dia de los Muertos altar from St. Therese Catholic Church, Appleton, is part of the “Food—Who We Are and What We Eat” exhibit currently featured at the History Museum.
Families will receive special admission for the October 26 program at the History Museum, with children being admitted free when accompanied by a paid adult. Activities will take place from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Families also will be able to tour the rest of the Museum as part of their admission.
Families can help decorate an altar, paint their faces, decorate sugar skulls, and participate in an activity to remember ancestors.
Library activities will include themed story times and activities. Details are available online at www.apl.org.
Information on this and other programs at the History Museum are available by visiting www.myhistorymuseum.org or by calling (920)735-9370 ext. 115.
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