The holidays feel like they officially kick off once the glasses start clinking, right? I put together 35 Festive Cocktails that cover pretty much every mood. Tall and sparkling. Cozy and creamy. Strong slow sippers. Fruity frozen treats. Even a few options you can tweak for the kids. I love greeting people at the door with something special because it instantly makes everyone feel welcome and at home. These drinks deserve a spot on the menu just as much as the food does.
Table of Contents
Cranberry Moscow Mule
If you’re a fan of the classic mule, this Cranberry Moscow Mule (mocktail also) by Noshing With The Nolands will win you over fast. Tart pops of cranberry bring the color, and bright lime keeps everything crisp and fresh. It’s cheerful, refreshing, and works all season long. You can even skip the alcohol and still enjoy it.
Festive Christmas Bourbon Eggnog
This Festive Christmas Bourbon Eggnog by Dish ‘n’ The Kitchen is the holiday cocktail everyone loves; smooth, spiced, and made with real bourbon for the perfect Christmas sip. Eggnog screams Christmas and is so enjoyed even without the bourbon.
Pomegranate Mojito Recipe
Pomegranate Mojito Recipe by Rachel Cooks brings fresh pomegranate flavor, mint, and lime together for a fun holiday twist. You don’t need any fancy gear, and it’s refreshing enough to enjoy long after the decorations are packed away.
French Martini
Vanilla vodka and Chambord take this French Martini from Noshing With The Nolands from simple to stunning. It feels impressive but comes together quickly, and once you try it, you’ll want it on repeat.
Merry Manhattan
A Merry Manhattan by Dish ‘n’ The Kitchen will solve your cocktail conundrums. This holiday bourbon cocktail is sure to please and to warm you to your toes. It will start the festivities right!
Crock Pot Apple Cider
This Crock Pot Apple Cider from Noshing With The Nolands will warm your insides and make your house smell amazing. The slow-cooked apple cider fills the house with the best cozy smell. It’s warm, comforting, and perfect for sipping through the holidays.
Chai Infused White Russian
Creamy, spiced, and totally indulgent, this Chai White Russian by The Lemon Bowl gives the classic cocktail a cinnamon-kissed upgrade. It’s sweet, cozy, and perfect for dessert.
Lemon Cherry Martini
Sweet cherries and bright lemon create a festive martini that tastes like Christmas in a glass. So, this Lemon Cherry Martini from Noshing With The Nolands is tangy, cheerful, and so easy to love.
Cranberry Mimosa
Just three ingredients turn this Cranberry Mimosas by The Blond Cook into the easiest holiday mimosa ever. Light, bubbly, and perfect for brunch.
Poinsettia Drink
Poinsettia Drink (A Champagne Cocktail) from Noshing With The Nolands is bright, simple, and made for celebrating. It’s light on sweetness and gorgeous in the glass.
Holiday Spiced Mulled Wine
Warm spices, cranberries, orange, and a splash of brandy make this Holiday Spiced Mulled Wine by Joyful Healthy Eats incredibly comforting. Make it on the stove or in the slow cooker for instant holiday vibes.
Brandy Alexander
Cognac, creme de cacao, and cream blend into a silky, chocolatey Brandy Alexander Cocktail from Amanda’s Cookin. It’s rich, smooth, and absolutely dreamy.
Chambord Bramble Cocktail
Blackberry liqueur gives this Chambord Bramble Cocktail from Noshing With The Nolands its deep berry flavor. It’s a classic that works in a rocks glass or dressed up in a martini glass.
Chocolate Mint Martini
This Chocolate Mint Martini from Noshing With The Nolands tastes like a grown-up peppermint patty. Chocolate and mint shine through, making it perfect for kicking off a special night.
Homemade Eggnog
Skip the carton and make your own Homemade Eggnog from Wholefully. It’s creamy, cozy, and can be served spiked or kid-friendly.
Strawberry Champagne Punch
With only three ingredients, this Strawberry Champagne Punch from Noshing With The Nolands is a total crowd pleaser. It’s light, sweet, and perfect for parties.
Espresso Martini
Bold espresso, vodka, and coffee liqueur shake into a smooth, Espresso Martini from Amanda’s Cookin. It’s trendy for a reason and delivers the best coffee kick.
Christmas Punch
Cranberries, oranges, and pomegranate make this Christmas Punch by Sugar and Soul Co bright and festive. Serve it as is or add rum or vodka to make it party-ready.
Irish Baileys Cream
This Irish Baileys Cream Recipe from Noshing With The Nolands tastes like chocolate and coffee blended into a boozy treat. Sip it after dinner for the perfect nightcap, or add it to your morning Christmas coffee for a special treat.
Cranberry Holiday Punch
Fresh cranberries, prosecco, and juicy pomegranate make this Cranberry Holiday Punch from Amanda’s Cookin is perfect for Christmas, brunch, or New Year’s Eve.
Champagne Moscow Mule with Mint
This Champagne Moscow Mule by Lemons for Lulu swaps ginger beer for champagne and adds fresh mint for a clean, bubbly twist on the copper mug classic.
Apple Cider Sangria
Apple cider and white wine are mixed with fresh fruit for a crisp, refreshing Apple Cider Sangria by Celebrating Sweets, which is great for gatherings.
Grasshopper Drink
Cool and creamy with mint chocolate flavor, this Grasshopper Drink from Amanda’s Cookin is smooth, sweet, and totally nostalgic.
Apple Bourbon Moscow Mule
In this Apple Bourbon Moscow Mule from Noshing With The Nolands, bourbon and apple team up for a deeper, warmer take on the original mule. It’s cozy, bold, and perfect for chilly nights.
Sidecar Cocktail
Brandy, citrus, and a hint of sweetness make this Sidecar Cocktail from Amanda’s Cookin bright and balanced. It’s a refreshing change from overly sweet drinks.
Peppermint White Russian Cocktail Recipe
Peppermint White Russian Cocktail from Home Cooking Memories adds peppermint to a classic cocktail for a festive twist. It’s rich, creamy, and ideal for tree decorating or a quiet night in.
Chocolate and Peppermint Martini
This sweet Chocolate Peppermint Martini from Little Black Skillet is perfect for dessert lovers. It’s smooth, festive, and sure to satisfy a holiday craving.
Bloody Mary or Caesar Bar
Bold, savory, and perfectly spiced, this Bloody Mary or Caesar from Noshing With The Nolands is great for brunch or holiday mornings when you need something hearty. Create a whole bar for your guests to build their own!
Sugar Plum Fairy Cocktail
Sweet, tart, and gorgeous in pink-purple tones, this Sugar Plum Fairy Cocktail from Olive Tavern feels magical for the winter season.
Cranberry Old Fashioned Cocktail
This Cranberry Old Fashioned Cocktail from Three Olives Branch is a twist on the classic favorite! Cranberry adds a bright twist to the traditional old-fashioned. It’s simple, classy, and ideal for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
White Christmas Punch
White Christmas Punch from Xoxo Bella is a tasty blend of white cranberry juice and pina colada mixer, turned into a frosty, fruity punch that can be made with or without alcohol. Everyone can enjoy a glass.
Blue Hawaiian Cocktail/Mocktail
Say “Mele Kalikimaka” with this Blue Hawaiian Cocktail from Noshing With The Nolands. This cocktail features sweet pineapple, coconut cream, and that signature ocean-blue color. It is easily made into a mocktail, too!! Add a cherry and festive garnish for the prettiest holiday cocktail!
Pumpkin Spice Cocktail
Pumpkin Spice Cocktail from Noshing With The Nolands is made with homemade pumpkin spice syrup, cider, and ginger beer, creating a fall cocktail packed with cozy flavor. It’s like autumn in bubbly form.
Cranberry Prosecco Punch
This Cranberry Prosecco Punch from Amanda’s Cookin is perfect for holiday mornings or chilly nights by the fire. Light, crisp, and easy to sip.
Get into the holiday spirit with 35 Festive Cocktails! This collection has something for everyone — sparkling Christmas drinks, cozy winter warmers, bourbon eggnog, fruity holiday punches, and more. Perfect for parties, entertaining, or sipping by the tree. Cheers! Tell me which one is your favorite!! Happy Holidays!!
Comments & Reviews
Bernice says
Wow! So many great cocktails here… Enough to get me through the holidays for sure. I’m starting with the Chai White Russian!
Tara Noland says
Enjoy!! Happy Holidays!!
Cecelia Carr says
This Holiday Drink Recipe Booklet is AMAZING (what I call it)!!!! It is just what I needed. There are soooo many wonderfully delicious drinks included in here. I just love it and will continue to refer to it throughout the holidays; we’re gonna have the best time and drinks EVER!!!
Thank youuuuu, Thank youuuu, Thank youuuuu and Happy Holidays 🙂
Tara Noland says
Excellent!! There are really some amazing ones in there, that I can attest to testing more than once!! LOL
Elizabeth L says
This is a great list to choose from! I am sure they would all be great at a Holiday gathering.
Nancy P says
I love the idea of a having a great list of cocktails like this! Yummy! I am sure these would be great for the Holidays.
Sarah says
So many great cocktails! We are having and attending a few parties this holiday season, so I’ll be making a few of these.
Sinisa says
These are delicious. One of these every day for me. My special advent calendar
Kathy says
All of these sound amazing. I’d love to give them all a try. I think they’re going to be great for the holidays.
Amy Desrosiers says
I love me a good holiday cocktail. The fruitier the better for me. My husband likes his drinks stiff.
Heather @ Kraus House Mom says
There are so many good cocktails here, I don’t know where to begin. I have done my fair share of Jager shots, but never thought to mix it with anything, the cranberry sounds good.
Jeanette says
I think I really want that adult milkshake! I think I have all the ingredients in my house too sooooo I’m thinking it’s going to happen tonight LOL. What a great mix I don’t know why I never thought about it before.
Stacie says
I’m bookmarking this for future reference! I love cocktails, and there are all kinds of great ones here! Thanks for these.
Amy @ The Blond Cook says
What an awesome roundup of holiday cocktails… pinned and thanks for including my cranberry mimosa. I’m thirsty now! 🙂