Stone Branch Offers Sugar Skull Art Workshop to Celebrate Day of the Dead

The Stone Branch Center for the Arts in downtown Front Royal invites residents to explore the colorful traditions of Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, at a hands-on sugar skull decorating workshop on Sunday, October 25, 2026.

The three-hour class, led by instructor Terre Jenkins, will run from 1 to 4 p.m. at the arts center, located at 114 East Main Street.

Participants will create decorative ceramic sugar skulls using colorful paints and designs inspired by the Mexican holiday that honors and remembers loved ones who have died.

The workshop costs $25 per person, and Stone Branch will provide the three-dimensional ceramic skulls, paints, and design ideas needed to complete the project.

Organizers describe the activity as a fun opportunity for families and friends to spend time together while exploring a tradition known for its colorful artwork and meaningful symbolism.

A Colorful Tradition With Deep Cultural Roots

Although sugar skulls often appear alongside Halloween decorations in October, they are closely tied to Día de los Muertos, a Mexican holiday traditionally observed around November 1 and 2.

Unlike Halloween, which often focuses on costumes, ghosts, and spooky entertainment, Día de los Muertos is a time for families to remember and celebrate the lives of relatives and friends who have passed away.

The holiday blends Indigenous Mexican traditions with elements of Catholic observances, creating a celebration centered on remembrance, family, and the continuing connection between the living and those who have died.

Families often prepare colorful displays known as ofrendas, or altars, decorated with photographs, flowers, candles, and favorite foods of deceased loved ones.

Marigolds, brightly colored paper decorations, and sugar skulls are among the celebration’s recognizable symbols.

Traditional sugar skulls, known as calaveras de azúcar, are often made from molded sugar and decorated with brightly colored icing, foil, and other embellishments.

Their designs can range from simple patterns to elaborate arrangements of flowers, hearts, and other decorative shapes.

Rather than frightening people, the skulls serve as colorful reminders of life, memory, and the importance of honoring those who came before us.

Bright colors and playful designs reflect the holiday’s emphasis on remembering loved ones with affection and celebration.

Creating a Lasting Piece of Art

At Stone Branch, participants will put their own creative spin on the tradition by decorating ceramic skulls instead of making traditional sugar versions.

Each participant will receive a blank, three-dimensional skull ready to be transformed into a colorful piece of artwork.

Using paints and design ideas shared during the workshop, participants can experiment with color combinations, patterns, flowers, and other decorative elements.

Some may choose traditional Day of the Dead designs, while others may prefer to create something that reflects their personal artistic style.

The project lets participants focus on painting and decorating without shaping a sculpture from raw clay.

The finished ceramic pieces are meant to be lasting keepsakes, offering a way to enjoy the artwork well beyond the holiday.

The workshop also offers a chance to learn more about an artistic tradition widely recognized through festivals, museums, and community celebrations.

Art, Creativity, and Community

The sugar skull workshop is part of Stone Branch Center for the Arts’ ongoing efforts to bring hands-on creative experiences to downtown Front Royal.

Through classes, workshops, exhibitions, and community gatherings, the center offers residents opportunities to explore different art forms and learn new skills.

The October 25 event provides a chance to combine creative expression with an introduction to the cultural traditions surrounding Day of the Dead.

It also offers an afternoon activity for friends or family members who want to make something together.

For participants unfamiliar with the celebration, the workshop may introduce the meaning behind the brightly decorated skulls frequently displayed during the fall season.

For others, it offers an opportunity to enjoy the tradition through a personal art project.

Workshop Details and Registration

The Sugar Skull Sculptures workshop will be held Sunday, October 25, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Stone Branch Center for the Arts, 114 East Main Street, Front Royal.

Terre Jenkins will lead the session, and the registration fee is $25 per person.

The center will provide blank ceramic skulls, paints, and design ideas.

Registration is available through Stone Branch Center for the Arts, and the event listing indicates that spaces are available.

For more information or to enroll, visit www.stonebranchartscenter.com or call 540-418-1407.

With Día de los Muertos approaching, the workshop gives local residents an afternoon to create something colorful while learning about a tradition that celebrates the lives and memories of loved ones.