Day of the Dead Food and Beverage

The most important food at El Dia de los Muertos celebration is the sweet Pan de Muerto. It is the one constant food found on the ofrenda, at the cemetery and at special festivals. The Bread of the Dead may come in many shapes and sizes, but usually, it is oval with knobs on top to represent skulls.

Food and beverage offerings differ for children and adult spirits. For los angelitos, fruits, tamales and sweets such as calaveritas de azúcar, candy calacas and dulce de calabaza may be offered, or even a miniature pan de muerto. Beverages may include chocolate, atole and even carbonated soft drinks.

Foods offered to adults on the Day of the Dead are usually more spicy. Favorites are chicken or turkey mole, tamales, maize cakes, enchiladas or other foods the deceased particularly liked. Beverages include alcoholic mezcal, pulque, and beer, coffee, chocolate and atole.

Water is always offered, because the spirits are thirsty after their long journey.

Index Introduction Day by Day The Ofrenda Food & Drink Glossary

Related Resources

Atole
Bread of the Dead
Cerveza, Chocolate Mexicano, Tequila
Legend of Mole
Day of the Dead Recipes
Sugar Skulls