7 Spirited Ways to Celebrate Día de Muertos

Day of the Dead, or Día de Muertos, is a celebration of life that originated in the Aztec era of the 16th Century from the belief that death is not to be feared or avoided, but merely just another passage of life. Today, many people believe that during Día de Muertos, which takes place from October 31 through November 2, our deceased loved ones have divine permission to visit us on earth to enjoy the pleasures of life. (Tequila, anyone?)

Read on to learn more about the holiday, through seven Patrón perfected Día de Muertos cocktail recipes, each inspired by an iconic or historic part of the spirited celebration.

Marigold Mule

The Marigold Mule contains a very symbolic ingredient in Día de Muertos celebrations, the Mexican marigold flower, known as cempasuchil. This flower is traditionally used to decorate Día de Muertos altars, and, in the case of the Marigold Mule, it makes its appearance in the form of a garnish alongside, Patrón Silver, St. Germain, fresh lime juice, and ginger beer.

Paloma Roja

Another refreshment typically served at a Día de Muertos celebration is fresh fruit water. Well, Patrón kicked it up a notch by creating the Paloma Roja featuring grapefruit and lemon juice, among other ingredients, including the fresh agave and light oak flavors found in Patrón Silver.

Boxcart

Why stop with decorating your altar with sugar skulls when you can decorate your cocktail with sweetness, too? The Boxcart features lightly aged Patrón Reposado, Citrónge Orange Liqueur, lemon juice, sugar syrup and a sugar rim to make any Día de Muertos party delightful.

Catrina

Catrina, originally known as “La Calvera Garboncera,” was a cartoon created in 1913 to mock the emerging upper classes in Mexico who appeared to be denying their Mexican heritage by adopting more European styles of dress. La Catrina was a reminder that “everyone is equal in the end.” While true, the same can’t be said for cocktails — this one is elevated with Horchata, cinnamon syrup, and Patrón Añejo.

Recuerdo Sour

“Recuerdo,” the Spanish word for “memory,” is essentially what Día de Muertos celebrations are all about. People are encouraged to share humorous memories of their loved ones and remember all the good times they had in their company. Featuring the light oakiness of Patrón Reposado complemented by brown sugar, citrus, and egg whites, this is a cocktail any soul would be thrilled to imbibe.

El Diablo

You’ll know you’re at an authentic Día de Muertos celebration when you see an array of sugar skulls. These intricately crafted decorations are used to adorn altars for loved ones and are typically made with sugar or chocolate. While beautiful, they can sometimes appear a little devil-ish, just like the antics at any good party where the El Diablo cocktail is served.

Pan de Muertos

Pan de Muerto, one of the most popular Día de Muertos offerings incorporates many ingredients, but it is characterized by the inclusion of orange zest and orange juice. Like its namesake, the Pan de Muertos cocktail also features the tangy citrus fruit with the inclusion of orange liqueur.