Holiday Cocktails

Looking for the best holiday cocktails to serve at your next party? Whether you’re hosting a Christmas gathering, planning a festive dinner, or just want a cozy drink to enjoy by the fire, this list of holiday cocktails has you covered.

From easy cocktails you can make in minutes to batch drinks perfect for entertaining, these festive recipes include everything from vodka and gin cocktails to seasonal favorites with cranberry, citrus, and warm spices. There’s something here for every taste — whether you prefer something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent.

Best New Holiday Cocktails

I make new holiday cocktails every year and these have been by far the most popular! If you’re spoiled for choice, this is a perfect place to start.

Get in the Holiday Spirits

• Batch Cocktails
• Gin
• Rum
• Tequila
• Vodka
• Whiskey
• Wine
• Non-Alcoholic
• Holiday Cocktail FAQs

Batch Holiday Cocktails for a Crowd

Hosting a party? These batch cocktails can be made ahead of time, so you can spend less time mixing drinks and more time enjoying your guests.

Gin Holiday Cocktails

Love, Peace & Gin. These gin-based cocktails are light, aromatic, and perfect for festive gatherings. Gin is best in herbal and citrus-forward drinks.

Rum Holiday Cocktails

Rum, Rum Rudolph. I love rum drinks because they add the perfect touch of sweetness and warmth. These rum-based holiday cocktails are perfect for tropical-inspired or dessert-style drinks.

Tequila Holiday Cocktails

Feliz Navidad y Tequila. Tequila adds a bright, citrusy twist, making it perfect for festive margaritas, winter citrus drinks, and crowd-pleasing party cocktails. Add seasonal flavors like cranberry, pomegranate, and spice.

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Vodka Holiday Cocktails

Happy Vodukkah. Vodka is a versatile base for any cocktail as its neutral flavor pairs well with peppermint and other sweeter seasonal flavors.

Whiskey Holiday Cocktails

Winter Whiskeyland. For something a little warmer and richer, these whiskey and bourbon cocktails are perfect for cold winter nights and cozy holiday celebrations. Think gingerbread, chai, and hot toddies.

Wine Holiday Cocktails

Dreamin’ of a Wine Christmas. Instead of bringing a bottle of wine to your next holiday gathering, mix up a wine-based cocktails. Lambrusco is bubbly, festive, and special while sangria is always a hit.

Holiday Spirit-Free Mocktails

Non-alcoholic drinks that feel just as festive as the boozy ones. These festive mocktails are perfect for guests who prefer N/A drinks but still want something fun and seasonal.

Holiday Cocktail FAQs

What are popular holiday cocktails?

Try using festive ingredients like cranberry, pomegranate, citrus, and warm spices. Classics like margaritas, martinis, sangrias or punches, and spritz-style drinks are often adapted with seasonal flavors.

What cocktails are best for Christmas parties?

The best cocktails for Christmas parties are easy to make and crowd-friendly. Batch cocktails, sparkling drinks, and simple vodka or rum-based recipes tend to be the most popular.

What are the easiest holiday cocktails to make?

Go for cocktails that use just a few simple ingredients like juice, soda, and a base spirit. Drinks like spritzes, wine-based cocktails, and simple margaritas are great options.

What cocktails can I make ahead for a party?

Batch cocktails like sangria, punches, and pitcher margaritas are perfect for making ahead. You can prepare them a few hours in advance and store them in the fridge until serving.

What non-alcoholic drinks can I serve at a holiday party?

Holiday mocktails made with sparkling water, juice, herbs, and seasonal fruits are great non-alcoholic options that still feel festive and special. Warm batch drinks like egg nog and mulled apple cider are also beloved by all alcohol and non-alcohol drinkers alike.