(1) Chock, 36, performs a sacred prayer dance, "The Old One," at Santa Monica High School's Roberts Art Gallery during the 'Dia de los Muertos,' (Day of the Dead) art opening on Thursday, October 30, 2008, 2008. On the drums is Erick Kidd, 32. (2) Artists (left to right) Tinia Fischer, Luis "Wicho" Brizuela and Jose Lopez discuss the altar during the opening. Students' calaveras, retablos, and other traditional images and projects were displayed. Day of the Dead is a Mexican holiday celebrating and honoring the lives of the deceased, and celebrating the continuation of life; the belief is not that death is the end, but rather the beginning of a new stage in life. Día de los Muertos dates back 3000 years.