Sugar Skulls & Tequila

A Creative Take on the Day of the Dead: Sugar Skulls & Tequila in Jacksonville

If you’re looking for a fun, hands-on way to celebrate the Day of the Dead in Jacksonville, the Sugar Skulls & Tequila tour might catch your eye. It’s a relaxed, 4-hour experience that combines making your own sugar skull with enjoying some classic cocktails. While it’s not a high-energy party, it offers a mix of craft, culture, and a little bit of boozy fun.

What drew us in are two things: first, the chance to get creative by decorating a sugar skull—something that feels both festive and a little bit artsy—and second, indulging in a couple of cocktails that fit the theme. Plus, the fact that it’s a small group experience, with a maximum of 14 travelers, means it’s more intimate and manageable than some larger tours.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the sugar skulls are not edible once they harden, so this is more about the craft and souvenir aspect than tasting. Also, the event is recommended for those over 16, so it’s not quite suited for young children, especially if you’re hoping for a family-friendly activity.

Overall, if you’re into cultural celebrations, enjoy creative projects, or just want a relaxed evening with some drinks and a souvenir, this tour could be a good fit—especially if you’re in Jacksonville and looking for something different to do during the festive season.

Key Points

• Creative activity: Make and decorate your own sugar skull to take home, adding a personal touch to Day of the Dead celebrations.
• Casual drinks: Includes two cocktails—options range from tequila shots to fall sodas—making it a laid-back social experience.
• Small group setting: Max 14 travelers, which encourages more interaction and personalized attention.
• Location and timing: Begins at 6:00 pm at 400 N Hogan St, Jacksonville, with the experience wrapping back at the start point.
• Cost and booking: $27 per person, booked about 11 days in advance; free cancellation available if you change your mind.
• Age restriction: Recommended for those over 16, mainly because of alcohol consumption.

The Experience in Detail

The Setting and Atmosphere

The tour kicks off at a downtown Jacksonville location—400 N Hogan St—an accessible spot near public transportation, which makes logistics easier if you’re staying nearby. The setting is likely casual and welcoming, with a focus on fun rather than formality. Given that it’s hosted by Sweet Pete’s Candy, you can expect a playful, slightly sweet vibe that complements the candy and craft elements of the experience.

The Crafting of the Sugar Skull

One of the main highlights is learning how to create a traditional sugar skull. We love that the tour emphasizes teaching you how to make the skull, not just handing you a pre-made one. This hands-on element gives the experience more value and makes your souvenir more meaningful. Decorations are provided—icings, fun supplies—and you’ll be guided step-by-step through decorating your skull.

The process is straightforward enough for most people, but it’s also a chance to get a little creative with colors and designs. Keep in mind that once the skull dries, it’s not edible, so this is about the craft and the memories rather than tasting.

The Cocktails

What sets this tour apart is the combined cultural craft with cocktail tasting. You get to enjoy two drinks, choosing from options like tequila shots, margaritas, sangria, draft beer, or seasonal sodas. The variety means you can opt for something stronger or keep it light with a fall-inspired soda.

The drinks are served during the crafting process, making it a relaxed, social affair. We expect the team to guide you on how to sip and savor your drinks, especially if you’re trying a shot of tequila. It’s not a party scene—the focus remains on enjoying the experience, but it’s definitely a way to loosen up and add a festive touch.

Group Size and Pacing

With a maximum of 14 participants, the group size is small enough to foster a friendly, chatty atmosphere. This intimacy often means better interaction with the instructor and fellow participants. The pacing seems well-balanced—enough time to make your skull, decorate it, and enjoy your drinks without feeling rushed.

Practical Details

• Duration: Around 4 hours, which makes it a nice evening activity.
• Price: $27 per person—this is quite reasonable given that you get to make, decorate, and take home a souvenir plus enjoy two cocktails.
• Booking ahead: On average, travelers book about 11 days in advance, indicating some interest but also flexibility to plan.
• Cancellation policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before, making it low-risk if your plans change.

What’s Not Included

While the experience is comprehensive, it’s good to remember that the sugar skulls aren’t edible once dried, so don’t expect to taste your creation. Also, because the focus is on craft and cocktails, this may not appeal to those seeking a more energetic or culturally in-depth tour.

The Reviews and Feedback

Currently, there are no reviews posted, so we’re relying on the description and features to assess value. However, the small group size and the combination of craft and drinks suggest it’s designed to be a laid-back, enjoyable way to celebrate a cultural tradition.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This activity is ideal for adults and older teens who want a relaxed, fun evening involving some creativity and casual drinks. If you’re interested in the Day of the Dead but prefer a more hands-on, social experience rather than a formal ceremony or a long museum tour, this fits the bill. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate small-group settings and enjoy DIY projects.

People looking for a family-friendly activity with young children might want to skip this one, given the alcohol and age restrictions. It could be perfect for friends, couples, or small groups wanting a memorable night out with a cultural twist.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in Jacksonville and want to experience something unique during the Day of the Dead, Sugar Skulls & Tequila offers a creative and relaxed way to get involved. You’ll leave with a handcrafted souvenir and a couple of drinks, making it both a fun and memorable activity. It’s not a high-energy party, but it’s enjoyable for those who love arts, crafts, and a bit of social sipping.

While it’s fairly straightforward and affordable, keep your expectations aligned with the focus on crafting and casual drinking rather than a deep culture. The small-group format ensures a friendly vibe, which is perfect if you like a more intimate experience.

If this sounds like your idea of a good time—something that combines culture, creativity, and a little alcohol—then it’s worth considering for your Jacksonville trip.

FAQ

Is the sugar skull craft suitable for children?
This activity is recommended for those over 16 because of the alcohol involved, so it’s not suitable for young children.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs for approximately 4 hours, making it a good evening activity.

What options do I have for drinks?
You can choose from a shot of Tequila, Margarita, Sangria, draft beer, or Halloween/Fall sodas.

Do I get to taste the sugar skulls?
No, the sugar skulls are not edible once they go through the drying process, so they serve as a craft and keepsake.

Where does the activity start and end?
It begins and ends at 400 N Hogan St, Jacksonville, with the entire experience centered around this location.

Is there any flexibility with booking?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled time.

How many people can participate?
The maximum group size is 14, which allows for a more personalized experience.

What’s the price per person?
The cost is $27 per person, which includes the craft supplies and two cocktails.

Is transportation provided?
No, but the meeting point is near public transportation options.

Can I book this experience last-minute?
While bookings are often made about 11 days in advance, you can check availability closer to your planned date.

If you’re after a creative, laid-back evening that celebrates a colorful tradition, this tour fits the bill. Just remember, it’s about fun and craft, not a deep dive into cultural history—perfect for a casual night out or a unique date idea in Jacksonville.