Holiday parties are a great time to enjoy festive drinks and cocktails. When hosting or attending a holiday gathering, there are many delicious and seasonal drink options to choose from.
Eggnog
Eggnog is a classic holiday drink that is often served at Christmas and winter parties. It typically consists of milk, cream, sugar, eggs, and spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. Some versions contain alcohol like rum or brandy. Eggnog has a rich, creamy and sweet flavor that goes well with holiday desserts.
Hot Chocolate
Hot chocolate is a comforting winter drink that can be enjoyed plain or dressed up with peppermint sticks, whipped cream, or marshmallows. It can be made with milk, cream, chocolate syrup, or melted chocolate bars. Hot chocolate is perfect for sipping by a fire or as guests arrive to a holiday gathering.
Mulled Wine
Mulled wine is red wine that is warmed and infused with spices and citrus. Common spices used include cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, and orange. The wine is heated with the flavorings and served warm at holiday parties. It’s an ideal after-dinner drink or accompaniment to holiday cookies.
Seasonal Beers
Many breweries release special seasonal beers and ales for the winter holidays. These often include ingredients like nutmeg, ginger, cinnamon, orange peel, or peppermint. Some popular winter beer styles are spiced ales, winter lagers, Christmas ales, and stouts or porters.
Gingerbread Ale
Gingerbread ales have the flavors of gingerbread cookies with hints of molasses, ginger, cinnamon, and nutmeg. They have a warm, biscuit-like taste that complements holiday meals.
Spiced Cider
Spiced cider is apple cider warmed up with cinnamon sticks, orange slices, cloves, star anise, or allspice berries. The spices infuse the cider with festive flavor. Adult spiced cider may also contain rum or brandy.
Festive Cocktails
Cocktails are a fun way to get into the holiday spirit at a party. There are many festive cocktail recipes that use winter flavors like cranberries, pomegranates, or peppermint.
Cranberry Margarita
A cranberry margarita is a twist on a classic margarita using cranberry juice and orange liqueur. It’s often garnished with cranberries or an orange slice.
Pomegranate Martini
A pomegranate martini incorporates pomegranate juice or pomegranate liqueur into a vodka or gin martini. It has a beautiful red-pink hue.
Peppermint Martini
A peppermint martini combines peppermint schnapps, creme de cacao, and vodka or gin. It tastes like a liquid candy cane!
Non-Alcoholic Options
For holiday gatherings with kids or non-drinkers, offer some festive non-alcoholic drinks. These can include:
- Sparkling cranberry juice
- Apple cider
- Hot chocolate
- Spiced tea
- Peppermint hot chocolate
- Gingerbread milkshake
Presentation Ideas
The way drinks are served and presented can add to the festive ambiance. Consider garnishing drinks with cinnamon sticks, cranberries, mint sprigs, or grated nutmeg. Serve punches and mulled wines in a slow cooker to keep them warm. Set up a hot chocolate bar with various toppings so guests can customize their drink. Use holiday mugs, glasses, or cocktail napkins to elevate the presentation.
Conclusion
From warm mulled wines to fun cocktails, there are so many drink possibilities to make your holiday party merry and bright. Consider offering a variety like classic eggnog along with festive cranberry margaritas and spiced apple cider. Garnish drinks to delight guests and serve in festive mugs or glasses. With delicious drinks and spirited presentation, you can bring holiday cheer to any gathering.