Día de los Muertos is a beautiful tradition that honors loved ones who have passed, and it’s a celebration full of rich history and culture. Though I didn’t grow up with these customs, I’ve embraced them as a way to teach my kids about our heritage and the importance of remembering those who came before us.
7 Things To Do for Day of the Dead With Your Children
Here are 7 fun, meaningful activities you can enjoy with your children to bring Día de los Muertos to life in your home:
1. Build an Altar
In Mexico, many families make an ofrenda (altar) in their homes on a table or shelves to pay tribute to their loved ones who have passed on. This is a collection of treasures, pictures, food, special items and candles to remind the families of their loved ones. Check out all essential components of a Day of the Dead altar and learn how to set up your own.
2. Read Bilingual Books for Day of the Dead
There are great children’s books that provide a good understanding of The Day of the Dead. If you are passing this beautiful tradition to your kids or if you are trying to learn more about the Day of the Dead in Mexico, the following bilingual books are great resources.
The Day of the Dead / El Día De Los Muertos
This is a MUST have bilingual book for Day of the Dead! It’s actually the book that my office chose to read to the kids that were attending the event. It provides great information on this holidays through the colorful pictures and story.
This is the story of a young girl helping her family to honor those who have died-especially her grandpa. It gives others an outlook of this beautiful tradition and help children to connect to the Mexican culture.
RELATED POST: Bilingual Books for the Day of the Dead
3. Make Sugar Skulls
Next weekend, we are planning to make sugar skulls for the first time. They look super easy and fun to make. I will be following this recipe. Do you have a favorite sugar skulls recipe?
4. Color Day of the Dead Pages
Grab some crayons and print out sugar skull and Catrina coloring pages. It’s an easy and enjoyable way to get little hands involved in the celebration while teaching them about the symbolism behind each design.
Sugar Skulls Coloring Page Catrina Coloring Page
5. Bake Pan de Muerto (Bread of the Dead)
This sweet, soft bread shaped like bones is a key part of Día de los Muertos. Try baking it together as a family with this recipe, or pick some up from a local panadería to enjoy while sharing stories about your loved ones. It’s delicious!
RELATED POST: The Flavors and Traditions of the Day of the Dead in Ecuador
6. Watch Day of the Dead Movies
Curl up as a family and watch Coco or The Book of Life. These heartwarming films are perfect for sparking important conversations about family, remembrance, and culture.
7. Decorate Your Space
Get festive by decorating with papel picado banners, marigolds, and other colorful items. This not only beautifies your space but also makes the celebration feel special and full of life.
Day of The Dead Papel Picado Banner 
Day of the Dead Table Cover Day of the Dead Cupcake Rings
These activities are not only a great way to introduce Día de los Muertos to your children, but they also provide an opportunity to celebrate family, memory, and culture together.
What are your favorite traditions? Share them with me in the comments—I’d love to hear how your family celebrates!
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