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30+ Thanksgiving Cocktails to Add to Your Menu

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Be thankful for this bevy of Thanksgiving cocktails and mocktails to enjoy on Turkey Day! From cranberry to pomegranate and champagne to bourbon, there’s something for every palate. Perfect for a holiday table or a cozy Friendsgiving, these drinks set the mood beautifully.

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

Your ultimate guide to Thanksgiving Cocktails

When it comes to Thanksgiving, food tends to steal the show. Understandable, given the starring role Thanksgiving dinner takes — turkey and sides galore, not to mention pie.

But that doesn’t mean you should skimp on the drinks! The right cocktail can will elevate your meal and enhance the experience. You can even dress up your hydration with festive spa water for the holiday.

Don’t fret, the right drink doesn’t have to be complicated. With just a few ingredients, you can craft the perfect drink filled with fall flavors to wow your taste buds.

Quick tips for hosting

If you’ll be cooking too, save yourself some time by opting for a big batch cocktail. You can make it ahead of time, then leave it in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Don’t forget about a mocktail option for guests who aren’t 21 or prefer not to imbibe. Use a zero-proof spirit or omit the booze from your favorite cocktail recipe, or pick a fall mocktail recipe that will shine on its own.

Choose a drink that compliments the other flavors of the meal. Try something like apple, cranberry, pomegranate, orange or rosemary. The dessert table isn’t the only sweet treat you should try. Dessert drinks are the perfect way to end a meal!

A refreshing pomegranate martini served in two glasses on a elegant gold tray.

What to serve with Thanksgiving cocktails

Since it’s Thanksgiving after all, I’d be remiss if I didn’t recommend some traditional options. Orange bourbon cranberry sauce is a twist on the classic recipe that your guests will love. Cranberry brie bites are the perfect appetizer that blends the flavors of dinner into just a bite. And give your pecan pie a boozy kick with a bourbon chocolate version that will have everyone reaching for seconds!

Thanksgiving cocktail recipes

From martinis to mimosas and margaritas to jello shots, there is something for everyone here. I hope one becomes a new tradition as an addition to dinner!

While the Turkey Cooks

Keep things easygoing with sippers you can enjoy while the turkey’s in the oven and the game’s on. These lighter pours bring plenty of flavor without slowing you down.

1
Gold mug of spiced apple cider garnished with a cinnamon stick and dried orange slice, surrounded by star anise and dried citrus on a white surface.
Mulled Cider
Nothing says “holiday gathering” like a warm mug of Mulled Cider. Simmered with spices and spiked with your favorite booze (or even without), it’s a comforting drink to serve on a chilly Thanksgiving day. Your kitchen will smell amazing while it’s brewing, too.
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2
A glass of orange-colored drink with a brown sugared rim, surrounded by small orange and white pumpkins on a white surface.
Ginger Pumpkin Shandy
A Ginger Pumpkin Shandy pairs spicy ginger beer with malty pumpkin ale for a crisp, fall-friendly mix. It’s lighter than most pumpkin cocktails, with ginger cutting through the sweetness and giving it a refreshing snap. Golden-orange in the glass, it feels just right for sipping while the turkey roasts or watching football on Thanksgiving. Add a squeeze of lemon if you like it extra bright.
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3
cropped-easy-homemade-bloody-mary-mix-image.jpg
Bloody Mary Bar
A Bloody Mary Bar lets everyone build their own drink that's spicy, savory, simple or fully-loaded. Plenty of garnishes and spirit options make it fun to customize. Perfect for football or parade watching, it’s a daytime staple that can stretch as long as the morning does.
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Batch Cocktails for a Crowd

When the guest list is long, batch cocktails keep things simple. Mix up a pitcher or punch bowl ahead of time so you can enjoy the holiday too — just pour, garnish and get back to the party.

4
Rosemary sprigs, cinnamon sticks and star anise lay on a white wooden background alongside two stemless wineglasses filled with ice and golden liquid garnished with apple slices and spices
Apple Cider Sangria
Apple Cider Sangria is light, fruity and totally fall-forward. Loaded with fresh apples oranges and maybe a cinnamon stick or two, it’s as pretty as it is tasty. Make it ahead and let the flavors mingle because it only gets better with time. Top it up with more wine if it runs low! This one is a great pick for sipping all day long.
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5
A bowl of sangria with apple, orange, and blood orange slices topped with cranberries.
Holiday Punch
Big-batch and super easy, this Holiday Punch with champagne is made for gatherings. It's fruity, fizzy and just strong enough to keep the conversation flowing. Serve it in a big bowl with floating orange slices and fresh cranberries for extra festive vibes. This one’s a total lifesaver for hosts — just mix and pour!
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6
A glass punch bowl filled with a citrus and spice drink, garnished with orange slices and edible flowers, surrounded by pumpkin-shaped containers and cinnamon sticks.
gastronomblog.com
Pumpkin Punch
Pumpkin Punch is a true crowd-pour — festive in the bowl, seasonal in flavor and easy to ladle out as guests arrive. It carries cozy spice and just enough kick to feel celebratory without being heavy. Perfect for holidays when family and friends gather often, it’s a make-ahead drink that takes the pressure off the host.
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7
Two apple cider margarita cocktails next to two red apples, some fall leaves and rosemary sprigs on a white background.
Apple Cider Margaritas
A fall twist on the classic, the Apple Cider Margarita blends cozy cider with tequila’s bright citrus kick. The balance of sweet and tart makes it easy to sip before dinner without feeling heavy. Mix up a pitcher for Friendsgiving and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser that starts the night on a festive note.
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8
A glass of espresso martini sits on a coaster next to a bottle of dark liquid and scattered coffee beans.
Batch Espresso Martini
Batch Espresso Martinis use smooth cold brew in place of fresh espresso, so you can mix a pitcher a day or two ahead of time. Vodka and coffee liqueur keep the flavor bold and bittersweet, while the cold brew adds a mellow richness. They fit right in at brunch for a little lift or after dinner when you want coffee and dessert in one sip.
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9
A frothy, creamy drink in a textured glass sits on a marble coaster, with another similar glass blurred in the background.
Milk Punch
Classic, creamy and surprisingly refreshing, Milk Punch is a Southern favorite that fits right in at Thanksgiving. Made with milk, bourbon and a bit of sweetness, it’s simple but oh-so-satisfying. Serve it cold with a sprinkle of nutmeg on top. It’s like a boozy milkshake for grownups.
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10
a closeup of a pumpkin spice White Russian garnished with a cinnamon stick
Pumpkin Spice White Russian
Creamy and spiced, the Pumpkin Spice White Russian leans straight into dessert territory. Vodka, coffee liqueur and cream get a seasonal boost from pumpkin spice, making it rich but still sippable. It’s tailor-made for after dinner when you want something sweet without reaching for pie. Mix up a big batch ahead of time.
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Brunch Beverages

Start the morning with festive pours that pair well with parade-watching, pie prep or just easing into the day. They’re bright, bubbly and made for sharing — and perfect if your Thanksgiving feast starts closer to lunchtime.

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a champagne flute with a cranberry mimosa garnished with sugared cranberries
Cranberry Mimosas
A round of Cranberry Mimosas will perk up a Thanksgiving brunch table with its ruby hue and crisp sparkle. Cranberry juice brings a tart-sweet bite that balances the bright effervescence of champagne. Served in a flute, it feels festive without being heavy, but for a softer touch, swap sparkling wine for prosecco.
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12
Clear mug of apple cider with a cinnamon stick and star anise on top, placed on a coaster. Apples and spices are in the background.
Spiked Apple Cider
Warm, cozy and loaded with fall flavor, Spiked Apple Cider is a classic Thanksgiving go-to. Whether you use rum, bourbon or whiskey, it’s always a hit. Serve it steaming in mugs or chilled over ice — either way, it's comfort in a cup. This is one drink everyone always comes back for seconds of.
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13
A hand holds a red drink garnished with cranberries, with another similar drink, pumpkins, and flowers in the background.
cakenknife.com
Sparkling Thanksgiving Cocktail
The Sparkling Thanksgiving Cocktail keeps things simple with vodka, cranberry juice, apple juice and champagne. Sweet and tangy with a little sparkle, it feels festive without being fussy. A versatile pour, it pairs with just about anything on the holiday table.
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14
A caramel apple mimosa in a champagne flute sits with a green dish towel holding a champagne cork and a cluster of apples
Caramel Apple Mimosas
A Caramel Apple Mimosa leans dessert-like yet stays light thanks to bubbly champagne. Apple cider adds cozy fall sweetness, while caramel vodka and a caramel drizzle deliver a decadent note that lingers. Golden in color, it makes an autumn brunch centerpiece or a playful after-dinner sip. Try it with spiced cider if you want a little extra warmth.
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Before Dinner

As guests arrive and snacks hit the table, it’s the right moment for cocktails that spark conversation. Think balanced, appetite-friendly pours that set the tone without stealing the spotlight.

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two pie pumpkins with a pumpkin spice old-fashioned
Pumpkin Spice Old-Fashioned Cocktail
The Pumpkin Spice Old-Fashioned puts a cozy fall spin on the classic bourbon cocktail. Warm spices and a hint of sweetness round out the spirit’s depth, creating a drink that feels both familiar and festive. It’s a smooth way to ease into the evening before dinner.
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16
Two glasses of pomegranate martini cocktail on a tray.
Pomegranate Martini
The Pomegranate Martini is tart, jewel-toned and a little bit elegant — just the thing to open a holiday meal. Its crisp flavor perks up the palate, making it a natural before-dinner pour. Served in a martini glass with a citrus twist, it feels celebratory without trying too hard.
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17
A floral glass with iced apple mojito garnished with mint, cinnamon stick, apple slice, and lime. Served on a woven coaster with a red apple and lime nearby.
Apple Cider Mojito
This Apple Cider Mojito is a fall twist on a warm-weather classic. Cider adds autumnal vibes while the mint keeps it light and crisp. It’s great for those warmer November afternoons or when you want something a little unexpected. It's simple, seasonal and seriously sippable.
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18
A glass of cocktail garnished with a round apple slice. In the background, there are more apple slices and a whole red apple.
Washington Apple Cocktail
Tart, crisp and slightly sweet, the Washington Apple Cocktail brings together apple schnapps, Canadian whisky and cranberry juice for a refreshing fall sipper. It’s got the perfect balance of bold and fruity.
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19
A flavorful pomegranate margarita infused with fragrant sprigs of rosemary.
Pomegranate Margarita
Tart, tangy and just the right amount of sweet, this Pomegranate Margarita adds a festive flair to your Thanksgiving table (or the day after with some leftover Thanksgiving tacos). It’s a gorgeous ruby-red drink that tastes as good as it looks. Serve it with a salted rim for a fun twist. Perfect for toasting with friends and family!
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20
A coupe glass filled with a yellow cocktail, garnished with a sugar rim and a thin apple slice floating on top.
mittengirl.com
Spiced Apple Cocktail
This gorgeous Spiced Apple Cocktail layers apple vodka and apple liqueur with lemon and brown sugar syrup for a mix that’s crisp yet rounded. A splash of ginger ale adds gentle fizz and lightens the spice. The result is bright, apple-forward and easy to sip while you graze at the appetizer table.
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Dinner Pairings

At the table, look for drinks that complement the feast rather than compete with it. Crisp, balanced cocktails keep the meal feeling fresh and celebratory.

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Top view of a glass of spiced apple cider with ice cubes, sliced apple, cinnamon stick, star anise, and rosemary sprigs.
Pear Thanksgiving Punch
This Pear Thanksgiving Punch is subtle, slightly sweet and oh-so-refreshing. Pear juice, bubbles and a splash of something boozy make it a mellow yet festive drink. It’s easy to whip up and even easier to keep refilling. Pair it with snacks or the main meal!
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22
A red Madras cocktail on a white coaster.
Madras Cocktail
The Madras blends vodka with cranberry and orange juices for a balance that’s tart, smooth and just sweet enough. Light-bodied and bright, it doesn’t overwhelm the palate, which makes it a smart pick to sip through dinner. Its rosy hue adds a little color to the table without stealing the show from the food.
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23
A Thanksgiving-inspired glass of Sangria, adorned with fruit and sprigs of rosemary.
Thanksgiving Sangria
Thanksgiving Sangria mixes crisp white wine, apple cider and a splash of whiskey or brandy with plenty of fresh fruit. Apples, oranges and pomegranate arils soak up the flavor, while cinnamon sticks and rosemary give it that cozy fall feel. A touch of maple syrup sweetens things just enough, and a little ginger ale on top keeps it light and easy for a crowd.
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24
The Asian Pear Moscow Mule cocktail is tart and succulent. The ginger beer will warm you right up. Perfect for sipping all fall long, even for Thanksgiving!
Pear Moscow Mule
The Pear Moscow Mule swaps in pear vodka for a smooth, subtly fruity twist on the classic. Crisp ginger beer and a splash of lime keep it zesty, while a fresh pear slice adds elegance in the copper mug. It’s not overly sweet, which makes it a smart match for dinner — refreshing enough to cut through hearty dishes without overpowering them.
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Dessert Drinks

When the plates are cleared, lean into cocktails that double as dessert. Creamy, spiced or bold, these are made for lingering over pie — or replacing it altogether.

25
Two martini glasses with pumpkin decorations.
Pumpkin Spice Martini
This Pumpkin Martini leans rich and creamy, with pumpkin spice, Irish cream and vanilla vodka coming together like dessert in a glass. It’s the kind of cocktail that makes sense after a big meal — indulgent but easier than another slice of pie. Smooth, spiced and seasonal, it’s a sweet tipple to wrap up the feast.
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26
A glass of pumpkin spice latte with cinnamon sticks.
Pumpkin Eggnog
Pumpkin Eggnog is creamy, cozy and laced with the pumpkin spice flavors that define fall. Think of it as classic eggnog with a seasonal twist, perfect chilled or topped with whipped cream. It makes an easy after-dinner sipper — and as Thanksgiving winds down, it’s a natural bridge into Christmas cheer.
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27
Two Brandy Alexander martinis on a silver tray.
Brandy Alexander Cocktail
The Brandy Alexander blends brandy, crème de cacao and cream into something lush and velvety, more like dessert than a drink. Its retro charm makes it feel special without fuss, and a pinch of nutmeg keeps it in the holiday lane. After a big Thanksgiving dinner, it’s just the right size indulgence — sweet, boozy and satisfying without another slice of pie.
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28
A glass of creamy brown drink topped with ground nutmeg is placed beside another similar glass, a brass jigger, and some almonds on a white surface.
Toasted Almond Cocktail
The Toasted Almond is sweet, nutty and incredibly smooth — a great choice for those who like their drinks on the creamy side. Amaretto and coffee liqueur make a cozy combo that feels like a treat. It’s perfect for winding down after a big meal. Just shake it with cream and serve over ice!
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29
a leftover cranberry sauce old-fashioned with a burning piece of rosemary
Cranberry Sauce Old-Fashioned Cocktail
With bourbon’s warmth and the tart kick of cranberry sauce, this Old-Fashioned really does taste like Thanksgiving in a glass. Bitters keep it balanced, and the ruby-red color is holiday ready. It’s an after-dinner sip that earns bonus points for using up leftovers — one less dish in the fridge.
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30
two black Russian cocktails on a white background with a bottle of coffee liqueur
Black Russian
The Black Russian keeps it simple — vodka and coffee liqueur over ice — but the effect is bold and bittersweet. Dark, strong and a little moody, it works best after dinner when you want something direct. Think of it as the nightcap that doubles as a gentle wake-up call, perfect if you’re plotting an early Black Friday run.
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31
A hand stirs an old fashioned cocktail with a large ice cube in a glass; a bowl of cherries and a lemon twist are nearby.
thespeckledpalate.com
Busted Pipe
The Busted Pipe blends bourbon and amaro into a drink that feels like a cousin to both the Old Fashioned and the Paper Plane. It’s warming and bittersweet, with just enough sweetness to keep it smooth. Served over ice, it’s the kind of cocktail you want to linger over when the weather turns cool.
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About Susannah

Susannah Brinkley Henry is the founder of Feast + West, a cocktail blog featuring creative, budget-friendly drinks and hosting ideas. A graphic designer with bartending school training, she shares cocktails, mocktails, appetizers and desserts for easy, stylish entertaining. Her work has been featured by Southern Living, Buzzfeed, The Huffington Post and Mashable, and she was a finalist in the Saveur Blog Awards. Susannah is also a publisher on MSN and has appeared on local news segments sharing seasonal drinks. She lives in Charlotte, N.C., where she brings Southern charm and global inspiration to every pour. Read more.

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