Cuesta 170Several activities are planned in honor of Dia de los Muertos at both Cuesta College’s North County and San Luis Obispo campuses. Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a Mexican holiday celebrated in many cultures that honors friends and family who have died.

“These celebrations may seem macabre to those who have never been exposed to them before, but they are a way to laugh in the face of death,” said Diane Limon, Cuesta College Extended Opportunities Programs Services counselor. “Traditionally, families will decorate the graves of their loved ones and build altars in their home adorned with photographs, food and treasured possessions of their loved ones to welcome them home. It is believed that on this one day the souls return to earth to be with their families.”

The following activities are scheduled at Cuesta College:

San Luis Obispo Campus:
Sugar Skulls and Altar Workshop
Oct. 21, 2 p.m. – 4 p.m., room 5104B (Cultural Center)
This workshop is open to the public. Learn how to make and decorate sugar skulls, the components of an altar and how to personalize your own.
Altars will be on display Oct. 20 – Nov. 6

North County Campus:
Gallery of Altars in the Schwartz Learning Resource Center lobby (Bldg. N3100)
Oct. 16 – Nov. 6
Altars will be created by Cuesta College students, clubs and departments and include Dia de los Muertos themed art created by Cuesta art students.

The events are sponsored by the Cultural Diversity and Student Equity Committee and the Latina Leadership Network student and staff chapters. For questions please contact Diane Limon at (805) 546-3100, ext. 2351 or dlimon@cuesta.edu.