This week we have been learning about the celebrations of Semana Santa in Spain and many other Spanish-speaking countries.

It has been a good opportunity to see some customs that are very different for many of our students. It has also sparked some great discussions. In order to compare two cultures, we had to ask the question: What is culture?

The Semana Santa processions - like many other public celebrations in Spain - are based on religious customs. We talked about how Spain still has an official religion (Catholicism) and contrasted that with the United States and our separation of church and state.

If you would like to learn more, here are some resources:

• Semana Santa presentation used in class
• Click here for a brief explanation of some of the Semana Santa costumes that might look scary!

This week in class we have been learning about the Mexican Holiday of the Day of the Dead. We have learned that it is a holiday to remember everyone who has passed away. However, in Mexican culture this is a joyful and festive occasion - not sad and serious.

Learning about these traditions has been a little strange for some students, because the Mexican attitude toward death may be different than what they are used to. One of the things we often learn in Spanish class is how to learn about traditions and customs that are different than our own, and how to be respectful of people different than ourselves. 

If you would like to learn more about this tradition, try some of the links below! 

--Día de los Muertos at AZ Central (Lots of information!)  
--Visit the Smithsonian Latino Center to build an interactive altar, and more.
--Sugar Skulls recipes, directions, and supplies. 
--Throw a Día de los Muertos party! 
--Online Calavera Coloring Sheets. 
--Cook up some Pan de Muerto (Bread of the Dead) or other holiday recipes