Thanksgiving Entertaining Guide | Best Cocktails to Serve This Holiday
Hosting Thanksgiving at home is one of the most joyful parts of the holiday season. The food is incredible, the house feels warm and inviting, and your favorite people are gathered around the table. And while the turkey takes center stage, the right cocktail can elevate the entire experience.
Whether you are setting up a full bar, preparing a signature drink, or looking for easy cocktails to serve before dinner, this guide will help you create a Thanksgiving celebration your guests will remember.
The Best Cocktails to Serve on Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving cocktails should balance the richness of classic holiday dishes and complement the warm, cozy flavors of the fall season. Below are a few crowd favorites that are easy to make and perfect for family gatherings.
1. Apple Cider Margarita
A fun seasonal twist on a classic margarita. Light, refreshing, and full of fall flavor.
Ingredients:
2 oz tequila
2 oz apple cider
1 oz lime juice
1 oz agave or simple syrup
Cinnamon sugar rim (optional)
Shake with ice and serve in a glass rimmed with cinnamon sugar. Garnish with an apple slice.
Why it works:
Apple cider pairs perfectly with Thanksgiving spices, adding a warm, cozy note to the meal.
2. Cranberry Bourbon Smash
A festive cocktail that balances sweet, tart, and warm bourbon flavors. Ideal as a pre-dinner sipper.
Ingredients:
2 oz bourbon
2 oz cranberry juice
1 oz simple syrup
0.5 oz lemon juice
Fresh cranberries and mint for garnish
Shake with ice and serve over fresh ice. Garnish with mint.
Why it works:
Cranberries are a Thanksgiving staple and pair naturally with roasted turkey, stuffing, and rich side dishes.
3. Sage and Grapefruit Spritz
Light, herbal, and refreshing. An excellent option for guests who prefer citrus-forward cocktails.
Ingredients:
2 oz vodka
2 oz grapefruit juice
1 oz sage simple syrup
Club soda
Pour over ice and top with club soda. Garnish with a sage leaf.
Why it works:
Grapefruit cuts through heavier foods, while sage adds a cozy holiday touch.
How to Stock Your Home Bar for Thanksgiving
You do not need a massive bar setup to impress your guests. With a few essentials, you can make a wide variety of cocktails and keep everyone happy throughout the evening.
1. Stock the Core Spirits
Aim to have these basics on hand:
Tequila
Vodka
Bourbon
Gin
Rum (optional but great for dessert cocktails)
These cover almost every popular Thanksgiving cocktail.
2. Add Essential Mixers
Choose mixers that work well with fall flavors:
Apple cider
Cranberry juice
Ginger beer
Club soda
Tonic
Fresh citrus (lemons, limes, oranges)
Simple syrup (regular or infused)
3. Bring in Fresh Fall Garnishes
Garnishes elevate cocktails without extra work. Try:
Orange slices
Apple slices
Fresh cranberries
Rosemary or sage sprigs
Cinnamon sticks
They look beautiful and add a festive aroma to your drinks.
4. Offer a Mocktail Option
Make everyone feel included by having a non alcoholic option:
Sparkling cider
Cranberry spritz with lime
Ginger beer mocktail with fresh herbs
5. Pre-Batch a Cocktail for Easy Hosting
Thanksgiving is busy. Mixing drinks individually can be stressful.
Choose one signature cocktail and make a pitcher ahead of time so guests can serve themselves.
Apple Cider Margaritas and Cranberry Bourbon Smashes both work great in batches.
Final Cheers
Thanksgiving entertaining does not need to be complicated. With a few quality spirits, simple mixers, and fresh fall ingredients, you can create cocktails that pair beautifully with your holiday meal. Whether you lean toward citrus-forward drinks, spiced bourbon cocktails, or festive cranberry creations, your guests will love the extra touch.
If you would like more cocktail ideas or professional bartending support, please reach out to Cactus Craft Bartenders and ask our advice on seasonal drink inspiration.
