While many students were out partying, trick-or-treating or passing out candy to children this Halloween, hundreds of thousands of Mexicans and Hispanic Americans were celebrating “El Día de los Muertos,” or “The Day of the Dead.” This holiday honors those who have died in a three–day long celebration that includes food, parades and feasts with family and friends.

On Thursday, October 28th, the Grand Blanc Spanish Club invited everyone and anyone to attend a celebration to learn more about the holiday. Traditional food and drink were served, and Spanish teacher Susan Stockton gave an informative presentation about the celebration.

Students of all cultures and backgrounds were invited to attend and learn more about the Spanish culture. While many Spanish students attended, some students had no background or knowledge of the language or culture at all.

Student Bonnie Dunkel who is currently in French attended the party saying, “I came because my friends are all in Spanish, but I’m actually in French. I think it’s really interesting that you have to unbury dead bodies after 25 years in Spain. You don’t learn those things in French class.”

Other students, such as Brittney Austin, attended because of the food and crafts. “I came to be with friends and get hot chocolate,” said Austin.

“Dead Bread” and hot chocolate were served, as they are traditional drinks served during the holiday. “Dead Bread,” is homemade bread that is most often shaped into skulls and contains anise seed, a spice that to many tastes like licorice, and is topped with an orange glaze, and the hot chocolate is also a common occurrence during the holiday.