25 Thanksgiving Drinks Ideas That Will Impress Everyone at the Table
When I think of Thanksgiving, I don’t just think about turkey or pumpkin pie—I also think about drinks. Because let’s be real, the right drink makes the whole meal even better.
Over the years, I’ve tried so many Thanksgiving drinks, from cozy hot ones to sparkling cold ones, and honestly, I’ve loved experimenting.
That’s why I made this list of 25 Thanksgiving drink ideas that you can try this year.
These drinks are simple, delicious, and fun to make. Some are boozy, some are not, but all of them will add that special holiday touch.
Let’s go through them one by one, and I’ll tell you why I think you’ll love each of them.
1. Hot Apple Cider
Nothing feels more like fall than hot apple cider. I love making it with fresh apples, cinnamon, and cloves. It warms you up and makes the whole house smell amazing.
2. Pumpkin Spice Latte
Yes, the famous PSL deserves a spot on your Thanksgiving menu. I make mine with real pumpkin puree and a pinch of nutmeg. You’ll feel cozy with every sip.
3. Cranberry Punch
This drink is sweet, tangy, and super festive. I mix cranberry juice, orange juice, and ginger ale. Add fresh cranberries on top, and it looks like you spent hours making it.
4. Spiced Hot Chocolate
Hot chocolate with a twist! I like adding cinnamon and a little chili powder. It’s rich, sweet, and has just the right kick.
5. Apple Cider Sangria
Sangria isn’t just for summer. Mix white wine, apple cider, sliced apples, and pears. It’s fruity, refreshing, and perfect for serving a crowd.
6. Maple Bourbon Old Fashioned
This one is for the adults. I mix bourbon with maple syrup instead of sugar. It’s smooth, strong, and perfect for sipping slowly.
7. Pumpkin Pie Smoothie
Not in the mood for coffee or alcohol? Try this! Blend pumpkin puree, milk, yogurt, and cinnamon. It tastes like liquid pumpkin pie.
8. Sparkling Pomegranate Mocktail
This is one of my favorites when I don’t want alcohol. Mix pomegranate juice with sparkling water and a squeeze of lime. It’s light, bubbly, and looks pretty in a glass.
9. Mulled Wine
This classic drink makes Thanksgiving feel extra special. Heat red wine with oranges, cinnamon sticks, and cloves. It’s warm, spicy, and perfect for cold evenings.
10. Caramel Apple Martini
I love this one because it feels like a caramel apple on a stick but in liquid form. Vodka, apple schnapps, and caramel syrup come together for pure dessert vibes.
11. Chai Tea Latte
Chai tea is one of my comfort drinks. It’s spiced, sweet, and pairs beautifully with pumpkin pie. You can make it with milk or almond milk—it works both ways.
12. Spiced Pear Spritzer
Pear is so underrated! I mix pear juice, sparkling water, and a dash of cinnamon. It’s refreshing and feels like fall in a glass.
13. Hot Toddy
When I want something simple but cozy, I go for a hot toddy. Just whiskey, honey, lemon, and hot water. It’s soothing and feels like a warm blanket.
14. Pumpkin White Russian
A creamy cocktail with coffee liqueur, vodka, and pumpkin spice creamer. It’s sweet, strong, and tastes like Thanksgiving in a cup.
15. Ginger Beer Mocktail
I love the fizz of ginger beer. Mix it with lime juice and cranberry juice, and you’ve got a spicy, tangy drink that everyone can enjoy.
16. Eggnog (with or without alcohol)
Eggnog isn’t just for Christmas. I whip it up for Thanksgiving too. Add rum if you want, or keep it kid-friendly—it’s always a hit.
17. Cinnamon Apple Smoothie
This is a healthy one! Blend apples, yogurt, honey, and cinnamon. It’s creamy and tastes like a fresh apple pie.
18. Pecan Pie Martini
This one feels so fancy! I mix vanilla vodka, amaretto, and cream with a little maple syrup. It’s rich, nutty, and perfect as a dessert drink.
19. Spiced Cranberry Margarita
Yes, margaritas can work for Thanksgiving! I make mine with tequila, cranberry juice, and lime. The rim with cinnamon sugar makes it even better.
20. Vanilla Chai Punch
This is a fun punch idea. Brew chai tea, mix with vanilla almond milk, and add a touch of honey. It’s creamy and perfect for sharing.
21. Toasted Marshmallow Hot Chocolate
Think campfire but fancier. Make hot chocolate, top with toasted marshmallows, and a drizzle of chocolate syrup. Kids and adults both love it.
22. Honey Lemon Tea
Sometimes you just want something simple. Honey lemon tea is soothing, warm, and easy to make. I drink it when I’ve eaten too much stuffing.
23. Cranberry Gin Fizz
This is light, fruity, and bubbly. Mix gin, cranberry juice, and club soda. Add a sprig of rosemary for that holiday touch.
24. Pumpkin Ale
If you’re into beer, this is a must-try. Pumpkin ale has a cozy spice flavor that feels very “Thanksgiving.” I like serving it with turkey.
25. Maple Pecan Hot Coffee
End the meal with this one. Brew strong coffee, add a splash of maple syrup and cream, and top with crushed pecans. It’s warm, nutty, and the perfect finale.
FAQs About Thanksgiving Drinks
1. What drinks should I serve on Thanksgiving?
You can serve a mix of hot drinks like cider or hot chocolate, and cold drinks like sangria or mocktails. Offer both alcoholic and non-alcoholic so everyone has something to enjoy.
2. Can I make these drinks ahead of time?
Yes! Drinks like sangria, punch, and mulled wine can be made earlier and stored in the fridge. Hot drinks can be reheated when guests arrive.
3. What’s the easiest Thanksgiving drink to make?
Cranberry punch is super easy. Just mix cranberry juice, orange juice, and ginger ale. Done!
4. How do I make drinks look more festive?
Use garnishes like cinnamon sticks, fresh cranberries, rosemary sprigs, or even caramel drizzles. They make simple drinks look special.
5. Do I need to serve alcohol?
Not at all! Mocktails, cider, hot chocolate, and tea are perfect for Thanksgiving too. It’s all about making guests feel welcome.
Final Thoughts
Thanksgiving is about food, family, and making memories. Drinks are just another way to add joy to the table. Whether you choose a hot cider, a fancy martini, or a simple mocktail, I promise these 25 Thanksgiving drinks ideas will make your holiday extra special.
Now tell me—are you going for a cozy hot drink this year, or are you shaking up something fun and boozy?