Day of the Dead and vodka are quite the interesting pair! Day of the Dead, or Día de los Muertos, is a vibrant Mexican holiday celebrated from October 31 to November 2 to honour loved ones who are no longer with us. Traditions include creating altars (ofrendas) with photos, marigolds, sugar skulls, and favourite foods and drinks of the departed, symbolizing that their spirits are welcomed back for the occasion.
While tequila and mezcal are more traditional Mexican spirits for Day of the Dead, vodka is also creatively incorporated in this festive holiday.
Vodka Spirit and the Day of the Dead Cocktail Recipes:
- Sugar Skull Vodka Cocktails: Use sugar skull molds to make colourful ice cubes or even use sugar skull glasses for vodka cocktails. You can make cocktails with ingredients like hibiscus (for a Mexican twist) or add marigold petals for a unique garnish.
- Marigold-Infused Vodka: Marigolds, or cempasúchil, are flowers traditionally used for Day of the Dead. Infusing vodka with marigold petals can create a striking and fragrant spirit that can be sipped or mixed with citrus juice for a refreshing cocktail.
- La Catrina Martini: Inspired by the iconic Day of the Dead figure La Catrina, try a martini that mixes vodka with pomegranate juice or cranberry juice for a blood-red colour. Garnish with edible flowers or a sugar skull stir stick.
- Ofrenda Vodka Punch: Create a punch that represents the offerings given to ancestors. Vodka mixed with flavours like hibiscus, orange, and pineapple can capture Mexican flavors while adding a twist.
Celebrate Day of the Dead with the Above Vodka Recipes
If you’re planning a Day of the Dead gathering with your family and friends, the listed vodka spirit ideas above will bring a modern, international twist to the traditional celebration while respecting its vibrant, heartfelt origins!
