Thanksgiving Cocktails

Be thankful for this bevy of Thanksgiving cocktails and mocktails to enjoy on Turkey Day! From cranberry and pomegranate drinks to those with champagne and bourbon, there’s something for everyone’s palette here in this list of 30 cocktails for Thanksgiving Day.

an apple cider mimosa on a wooden coaster with cinnamon sticks, an apple and a pitcher of apple cider

Thanksgiving cocktails don’t have to be difficult.

After all, you’re already planning a big meal, right? Or maybe someone just asked you to bring a drink recipe.

As I describe in my holiday cocktail ebook, Holiday Spirits, I don’t want you to stress about the drinks.

You’ve totally got this.

In fact, I pulled together 30 Thanksgiving cocktail recipes for you. Many of them are from my site, but I feature quite a few from around the internet as well.

Thanksgiving cocktail flavors

There are a few flavors that show up over and over again in Thanksgiving cocktails:

  • apple cider
  • cranberry juice
  • pomegranate juice
  • ginger beer
  • coffee
  • pumpkin spice
  • cinnamon
  • chai
  • orange
  • rosemary
  • pecan

Just thinking about those flavors gets me excited for Turkey Day! It’s my favorite holiday, after all.

a bowl of cranberry sauce with a cranberry sauce old-fashioned

Tips for making Thanksgiving cocktails

Cocktails aren’t as complicated as turkey or pie. They might even be easier than this easy orange bourbon cranberry sauce.

I suggest stocking your bar for a party, so that you’re ready for anything.

But I also suggest making at least one signature cocktail.

This could be a pitcher, punch or warm drink that is available to guests throughout your party. It could also be a mimosa bar.

Or, you can whip up a round of drinks when guests arrive and enjoy another round with or after dessert.

During dinner, guests can sip on beer, wine or champagne to keep it simple.

Make sure you always have a non-alcoholic option for people, even if it’s zero-proof spirits or a signature mocktail. A pretty pitcher of citrus spa water is another favorite of mine.

Thanksgiving cocktail recipes

But trust me, you’ve got this! So let’s get into those recipes without any further ado.

From martinis to mimosas and margaritas to jello shots, there is something for everyone here.

I hope you find something new that you love, and want to make year after year! Or, perhaps you want to try them all?

Before Dinner

Serve up these cocktails before you carve the bird, while your guests snack on appetizers and mingle.

Brunch Drinks

If you enjoy your Thanksgiving meal earlier in the day, you may wish for some brunch-like drinks. Or, sip on these while you cook. (Safely, of course.)

Punches & Pitcher Drinks

These cocktails make a big batch and will serve a bigger crowd. Serve them in a punch bowl or in a pitcher.

After-Dinner Drinks

Sip on these cocktails after dinner, while you eat dessert or even after that if you want to keep the party going!

The Golden Ratio Guide:

Mix the perfect cocktail, every time

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