Day of the Dead traditions explored at Elgin Public Museum

On Saturday, June 13, Judson University professor Christine Starzynski and Elgin Public Museum educator Sara Russell tell the story of Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, in both Spanish and English.

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.

On Saturday, June 27, Professor Christine Starzynski of Judson University presents "Dia de los Muertos." The slide show and lecture illustrates 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 altars. 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 the Web site for upcoming events: www.elginpublicmuseum.org. All events are free at the museum, located in Elgin's Lords Park at 225 Grand Blvd. For information, contact the museum at (847) 741-6655. This exhibition was developed by The Field Museum in collaboration with Mars Inc.