Amidst the hustle and bustle of kitchen preparations, it’s easy to overlook the array of delightful Thanksgiving cocktails perfect for sipping before, during, or after your holiday meal. This curated list of Turkey Day drinks ensures your celebration is complete with festive libations that are too good to exclude from your Thanksgiving menu. Cheers to a memorable feast!
1. Bourbon-Campari Punch

Ideal for large Thanksgiving gatherings, this punch combines bourbon, Campari, and a blend of pomegranate, orange, and lime juices. Its festive flair is enhanced by a vintage-style ice ring adorned with pomegranate arils, making it a Thanksgiving standout.
2. 'Una Buena Noche' Cocktail
Jen CauseyInspired by the popular drink at Ernesto's in New York City, this stunning cocktail blends tequila, lime juice, apricot liqueur, honey syrup, and ginger syrup, shaken with ice for a silky base. Topped with Lambrusco, it creates a striking two-toned presentation.
3. Minty Moscow Mule Punch
J Muckle; Styling: Rebekah PepplerFor Moscow mule enthusiasts, this punch is a must-try. It elevates the classic recipe with a refreshing mint twist, thanks to a ginger-mint simple syrup and fresh mint garnish. Opt for a bold ginger beer to add an extra kick of spice.
4. Spicy Mulled Wine
Greg DuPreeMulled wine is the quintessential drink that heralds the cozy holiday season. While it can be made with wine and a mix of your preferred spices, achieving the perfect flavor balance is key. This recipe incorporates a generous amount of black peppercorns and fresh ginger, ensuring the final product isn’t overly sweet.
5. Irish Iced Coffee
Getty ImagesSkip the usual cake and coffee after your Thanksgiving feast and opt for an Irish coffee instead. This chilled version features simple syrup, whiskey, and heavy cream, blending caffeine and dessert into one indulgent treat.
6. Cranberry Margarita
Jen Causey, Food Stylist: Rishon Hanners, Prop Stylist: Julia BaylessWhy settle for cranberry sauce when you can enjoy a cranberry margarita? This festive cocktail mixes tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, and cranberry juice for a tangy, fruity, and refreshing Thanksgiving drink.
7. Apple Cider Sidecar
Greg Dupree, Prop Stylist: Claire Spollen, Food Stylist: Emily HallApple pie may scream Thanksgiving, but apple cider cocktails are just as fitting. This sidecar variation replaces classic brandy with apple brandy, infused with a honey-cinnamon caramel flavor. A splash of lemon juice adds a refreshing zing, perfect for cleansing the palate after dinner.
8. Classic Margarita
Dana GallagherThe timeless appeal of the classic margarita makes it a year-round favorite, perfect for any event, even Thanksgiving. This zesty recipe blends 3/4 cup of tequila, 1/2 cup of fresh lime juice, and 1/2 cup of Triple Sec or Cointreau for a refreshing drink.
9. Mint Julep
Greg DuPreeNeed a refreshing drink after a hearty Thanksgiving dinner? This mint julep recipe is the answer. Use fresh mint for maximum flavor and muddle in some blackberries saved from your berry pie for an added burst of taste.
10. Classic Amaretto Sour
Carson Downing, Prop Styling: Lexi Juhl, Food Styling: Kelsey MoylanHosting Thanksgiving dinner means accommodating guests with diverse tastes, from sweet to tart. This amaretto sour recipe is a crowd-pleaser, balancing both preferences effortlessly. With just three ingredients—amaretto liqueur, simple syrup, and lemon juice—plus an orange slice and cherry garnish, it’s simple yet delightful.
