Thanksgiving Cocktails & Nonalcoholic Drinks

Thanksgiving drinks round out the meal — and offering both Thanksgiving cocktails and nonalcoholic Thanksgiving drinks means everyone feels included. Here are a few crowd-pleasers, from a warm cider cocktail to a sparkling cranberry mocktail the kids will love.

Signature Cocktails

A bourbon apple cider cocktail is the season in a glass: bourbon, warm apple cider, a squeeze of lemon, and a cinnamon stick garnish. Other Thanksgiving cocktails that work: a spiced pear martini, a cranberry margarita, or a simple gin-and-tonic with a sprig of rosemary. Batch a big pitcher so you're not playing bartender all day.

Mocktails for All

Nonalcoholic Thanksgiving drinks keep the table inclusive. A sparkling cranberry mocktail — cranberry juice, a splash of apple cider, ginger ale or sparkling water, and a rosemary sprig — is festive and pretty. A spiced apple cider (simmered with cinnamon, cloves, and orange) is warm and alcohol-free for any age. Serve in the same glassware as the cocktails so they feel just as special.

Pairing & Serving

Offer a light, acidic cocktail before the meal to sharpen the appetite and a warming, sweeter one after dinner. Set out a self-serve station with garnishes (rosemary, cranberries, citrus wheels) so guests can build their own. Whether cocktail or mocktail, the right Thanksgiving drinks make the gathering feel like an occasion.