On Tuesday, 4^th November 2025, Grade 6 and Grade 7 students had the opportunity to visit the Cervantes Institute in Belgrade and explore the exhibition dedicated to the Day of the Dead — Día de Muertos — traditionally organized each year at this time by the Embassy of Mexico. Serbian culture marks a similar occasion called Zadušnice, though the customs and spirit of Mexico’s Day of the Dead are quite different.

This year, our students had the chance to see an altar dedicated to the renowned Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. Representatives of the Mexican Embassy spoke about the origins, symbolism, and traditions of the Day of the Dead. Students discovered that the celebration spans several days, beginning on 27^th October, which honours the souls of deceased pets, and ending on 2^nd November, dedicated to departed adults. They also discovered that, unlike in many other cultures, this holiday in Mexico is a joyful occasion — a celebration of the lives of loved ones who once enriched and brightened our world. It is believed that during this time, a portal between worlds opens, allowing the souls of the departed to return and visit their families.

The students learned about the main elements of the altar and their meanings. Every home in Mexico traditionally sets up an altar adorned with photographs of deceased relatives. Offerings include a special sweet bread (pan de muerto), water, candles, salt, marigold flowers (flores de cempasúchil), decorative paper cutouts (papel picado), and incense. Altars often also display the favorite foods and drinks of the deceased, toys, sweets, and colourful sugar skulls (calaveritas de azúcar).

The vibrant colours and joyful spirit of this UNESCO-recognized Intangible Cultural Heritage celebration left a strong impression on our students.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Cervantes Institute in Belgrade for their warm welcome, and to the Embassy of Mexico for their rich and engaging presentation of this remarkable tradition.