Thanksgiving has its worries: stressful travel, too-familiar foods, and maybe a few contentious relatives. It’s not quite the full blast of Christmas, and the fun of Halloween has run its course. And if you don’t like turkey…you’re out of luck. But for your next Thanksgiving gathering, consider putting a new spin on the holiday by making one of these Thanksgiving drinks. Both cocktails and mocktails abound, so everyone can enjoy. Making a creative seasonal drink, prepared with care, is one way to show your guests you’re thankful for their presence at your table.
Thanksgiving Drinks for Your Holiday Table
Thyming is Everything
We designed this Thanksgiving cocktail with apple, thyme, vodka, and sparkling apple cider specifically for a fall gathering. It’s easy to make and uses ingredients you most likely already have in your kitchen!
Apple Cider Manhattan
Indulge in autumnal flavors with this delicious Manhattan. You can sub out the Dubliner whiskey we used for any whiskey of your choosing. Also, one benefit is that the dilution of apple cider in this Manhattan means that guests can have more than one of these at a dinner party and not feel guilty!
Bloody Beet Red Mocktail
This was originally imagined as a Halloween recipe, but its ruby color works just as well to celebrate the fall season. A beautiful drink that everyone can enjoy!
Aperol Spritz
Nothing says appreciating the little things in life like sipping on an aperol spritz any time of year. Aperitivos encourage you to slow down and enjoy your food. A plate of olives, cheese, prosciutto, and some spritzes is a great way to start off a more upscale Thanksgiving dinner.
Smokin’ Apple Mocktail
If you want to lose the booze this Thanksgiving, it doesn’t mean giving up quality gathering time around the Thanksgiving table. A non-alcoholic twist on the Thanksgiving drink menu, this Smokin’ Apple will be a crowd-pleaser among kids and adults like.
Pumpkin Spice Latte Martini
A martini is a great cocktail for any gathering, but making this fall-inspired version of it can show off your home bartending skills. Maybe pair it with a slice of pumpkin pie for dessert!
Hot Honey Toddy
This hot honey toddy makes for a cozy way to end a night with friends and family, especially if the night has gotten cold.
Spice is Nice Sangria, A Batch Cocktail
Need a cocktail that you can batch easily for your giant family gathering? This Spice is Nice Sangria comes together with Cabernet wine, chai tea, Giffard vanilla, and star anise. Choose to make it by single serving ingredients or batched to handle 40 guests at once.
Kid’s Choice Mocktail
Don’t leave the kiddos out of the Thanksgiving celebration! this Kid’s Choice Mocktail puts the flavors of fall into a spirit-free refreshment. Simply mix together brown sugar, water, cinnamon, apple cider, lemon juice, and lemon soda. Plus you can make this a cocktail for the adults with the addition of your favorite vodka, whiskey, or rum.
Story by Emma Riva
Subscribe to TABLE Magazine’s print edition.
