Talk planned in Elgin on 'Day of the Dead'

On Saturday, June 27, Judson University professor Christine Starzynski will tell the story of Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead at the Elgin Public Museum.

It is Mexican tradition that the first two days of November belong to the dead; they are granted celestial permission to visit friends and relatives on Earth. After learning a bit about this fascinating ritual, children of all ages can decorate Day of the Dead themed maracas to take home.

Starzynski presents a slide show and lecture illustrating Day of the Dead as seen by someone who has experienced it. Once you've picked our expert's brain, stay for the craft. Sugar and chocolate skulls of all sizes fill shop windows in Mexico during Dia de los Muertos. They are exchanged with friends, eaten by children, and used to decorate alters. Create your own version of this sugary treat - marshmallow skulls! This is something for both children and adults.

To augment the pictorial exhibition on loan from The Field Museum titled, "A Celebration of Souls: Day of the Dead in Southern Mexico," Elgin Public Museum and Judson University will be hosting a series of events on selected Saturdays at 2 p.m. throughout the summer.

Visit www.elginpublicmuseum.org. All events are free at the museum, located in Elgin's Lords Park at 225 Grand Blvd. For information, call (847) 741-6655.