One of my favorite go-to resources for learning about any topic is the Smithsonian and it's collection of museums. So each year when I research lesson plans, activities, and exhibits dedicated to Día de los Muertos, I keep any eye out for the Smithsonian's Day of the Dead resources. Their resources come and go, but I try to keep this page updated with the current online programs that they offer. If you'd like to find other online options, be sure to check out my post on Día de los Muertos, Day of the Dead Lesson Plans and Activities.
Day of the Dead Learning Kit
The Smithsonian Learning Lab has published a new Day of the Dead Learning Kit available for educators and families. It includes the Smithsonian collections, video resources, music, and hands-on activities for in-school or at-home learning.
The National Museum of the American Latino
The National Museum of the American Latino has a web page dedicated to Día de los Muertos. It's not as extensive, but does include links to their virtual exhibitions, which were created in partnership with Google Arts & Culture. It also links to their last two years' Dead Poets Open Mic Series. I really miss, though, all the education resources for teachers.
National Museum of the American Indian
Because our heritage is so intricately entwined with that of Indigenous Peoples, the National Museum of the American Indian also has a wonderful site dedicated to Day of the Dead. The resources consist mostly of videos and video resources.
Smithsonian American Art Museum
SAAM also has a page titled Día de los Muertos Family Zone, which offers a lot of fun artistic ideas for children. Activities include a calavera wreath, mini nicho, lantern, marigold garland, and more.
Smithsonian Magazine
And finally, be sure to check out the Smithsonian Magazine for a few great articles dedicated to the holiday. They are:
Smithsonian Latino Center on Tumblr
It's several years old, but you can also follow the Smithsonian Latino Center's official Day of the Dead/Dia de los Muertos blog on Tumblr. There's still a lot of great information on the site.
