Day of the Dead Drinks: Dia De Los Muertos

Every 2nd of November, after sunset, the only light illuminating the Panteón General, one of Oaxaca’s largest cemeteries, is the candles set down at each grave. What is known as “the city of tombs” emanates a yellow glow as family and friends gather to honor those who have passed on. Flower arrangements made of marigolds, photos, and other memory tokens are also laid down. Most notably, however, it is probably the honorary beer bottles, soda, juice, and Mezcal that would have any unknowing individual furrowing their brow. 

Decorating graves with Day of the Dead drinks is a significant part of this unique celebration. And, when we consider that Dia De Los Muertos is actually a celebration of life, tempting deceased loved ones with a bottle of tequila is as good-natured as it gets! Learn more about this bright and beautiful holiday. And how you can celebrate with divine drinks and gifts from Drinkable Gifts. 

day of the dead drinks two skeleton dolls hanging

Drink Traditions on Dia De Los Muertos: Why Mezcal?

Mezcal holds a special place in the hearts of those who celebrate Dia De Los Muertos. But why Mezcal? This smoky spirit has deep roots in Mexican culture and symbolizes the connection between the living and the dead. For many, offering Mezcal at altars represents a shared experience across time.

Many believe that the scent of Mezcal and marigolds draws the spirits of the deceased back to their families. Among Day of the Dead drinks, Mezcal is significant because it honors the heritage and history of those who have passed, as well as those who celebrate. Whether you sip it or lay it at the base of your loved ones’ altar, Mezcal plays a vital role in Dia De Los Muertos traditions.

Tequila Gifts for the Day of the Dead

Gold Collection

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Double Margaritas

patron and mezcal gift

Complete Tequila

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Day of the Dead Drinks: What Do People Drink on the Day of the Dead?

When it comes to Day of the Dead drinks, they are a colorful mix of old traditions and modern twists. Families often offer drinks that their deceased loved ones enjoyed in their lives, such as a favorite beer or soda or a special family recipe of fruit juice or punch. Common altar offerings are often spirits like tequila, vodka, and rum, each chosen to bring joy to those who have passed on.

Alongside alcohol, you’ll also find traditional drinks like atole, a warm corn-based drink featuring a mix of cinnamon and sugar. This is a favorite during chilly November nights! Another popular choice is champurrado, a chocolatey version of atole. 

3 Day of the Dead Cocktail Recipes to Revive You 

day of the dead drinks margarita

Smoky Mezcal Margarita: 

A tangy and slightly spicy cocktail made with fresh lime juice, a touch of agave syrup, and a smoky Mezcal base.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz (60 ml) Mezcal
  • 1 oz (30 ml) fresh lime juice (about 1 lime)
  • 1/2 oz (15 ml) agave syrup (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 oz (15 ml) triple sec or orange liqueur
  • Salt for rimming the glass
  • Ice
  • Lime wedge (for garnish)

Instructions:

  1. Rim your glass with lime juice and dip it into salt.
  2. In a cocktail shaker, add the Mezcal, fresh lime juice, agave syrup, and triple sec.
  3. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds.
  4. Strain the mixture into your prepared glass over fresh ice.
  5. Garnish with a lime wedge, and enjoy!

day of the dead drinks tequila sunrise

Tequila Sunrise of the Dead

This vibrant cocktail features tequila, orange juice, and grenadine, mimicking the sunset hues often seen during the festival. For authenticity, add a marigold flower garnish! 

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz (60 ml) tequila (blanco or reposado)
  • 4 oz (120 ml) orange juice (fresh-squeezed preferred)
  • 1/2 oz (15 ml) grenadine
  • Ice
  • Marigold flower or orange slice for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Fill a tall glass with ice.
  2. Pour the tequila and orange juice over the ice, stirring gently to combine.
  3. Slowly pour the grenadine into the glass. It will sink to the bottom, creating a layered effect.
  4. Garnish with a marigold flower or an orange slice for an authentic Day of the Dead touch.
  5. Serve without stirring to maintain the sunrise effect.

day of the dead drinks champurrado cocktail

Champurrado Cocktail

A fusion of traditional Mexican hot chocolate with a splash of rum. This warm drink is perfect for colder nights and offers a delicious tribute to the roots of Dia De Los Muertos drinks.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups (480 ml) milk (or a dairy-free alternative)
  • 2 cups (480 ml) water
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) masa harina (corn flour)
  • 3 oz (85 g) Mexican chocolate (or bittersweet chocolate)
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 oz (30 ml) dark rum (optional, or adjust to taste)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Sugar or sweetener to taste
  • Whipped cream or cinnamon sticks for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a saucepan, heat water and milk over medium heat until warm but not boiling.
  2. Whisk gradually in the masa harina until smooth and thickened.
  3. Add the chocolate, cinnamon, vanilla, and a pinch of salt, stirring until the chocolate is melted and everything is well combined.
  4. Sweeten to taste with sugar or your preferred sweetener.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in the dark rum.
  6. Serve hot, garnished with whipped cream or a cinnamon stick, for a perfect Día de los Muertos warm cocktail.

Want to Celebrate the Day of the Dead With Thoughtful Gifts? Send These! 

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two tequilas gift set

Discover Day of the Dead Drinks and More at Drinkablegifts.com 

At Drinkablegifts.com, you’ll find thoughtful alcohol gifts to send to friends and family or even commemorate Dia de los Muertos in your home. With customizable options and international delivery, you can be part of the celebration no matter where you are! Cheers to celebrating the past as well as the present! 

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