Honouring Tradition: LCS Celebrates Día de los Muertos

At Lakefield College School, the spirit of El Día de los Muertos (The Day of the Dead), came alive this week as students immersed themselves in the rich traditions of this vibrant Mexican celebration. Held on November 1 and 2, Día de los Muertos is a cherished cultural event in many parts of Mexico and Central America, serving as a day of remembrance for loved ones who have passed away.

The school was abuzz with various activities throughout the week, showcasing our students' respect for this important cultural celebration. On Tuesday, our Grade 11 students constructed an altar in the Narthex, a colourful mosaic of memories and scents that paid homage to their departed loved ones. Meanwhile, our Grade 12 students, embraced the art of decorating sugar skulls—a centuries-old sweet tradition that is still popular today.

On Wednesday, Winder Smith Dining Hall transformed into a hub of activity as our Grade 11 students engaged in the age-old tradition of making "Pan de Muertos" bread. 

On Thursday, members of the Global Discovery Club, Lexi ’25, Sequoia ’26, Molly ’26, along with Mexican students, Javi ’25, Jero ’25, Bernardo ’26, and Stella ’26 delivered a presentation in which they shared the essence and significance of Día de los Muertos. This discussion was followed by a special lunch in the Dining Hall, which further allowed our students and staff to savour traditional Mexican cuisine, connecting them even more deeply with the culture they were celebrating.

As evening fell, the school community gathered for the annual visit to Lakefield Hillside Cemetery. In a touching gesture, students paid their respects to prominent deceased members of the Grove community, adorning their graves with flowers. 

Throughout the week, the Grade 11 and 12 Spanish classes immersed themselves in various learning activities that allowed them to delve into the spiritual and cultural aspects of Día de los Muertos. The students worked diligently to construct altars honouring their family members or beloved celebrities who had influenced their lives profoundly. 

As the week came to a close, the school community reflected on the enriching experience and the deep cultural understanding gained through these activities. Día de los Muertos at Lakefield College School became more than just a celebration; it became a testament to the school's commitment to embracing diverse cultures and traditions, fostering a sense of unity and understanding among its students.