15 Drinks to Keep the Holiday Spirit Flowing Even After the In-Laws Arrive

The holidays bring family together, and sometimes, that calls for a little extra spirit—literally. This collection of festive drinks, both with and without alcohol, keeps everyone in good spirits, even after the in-laws arrive. With options that mix classic flavors and a touch of seasonal fun, these drinks bring excitement to any gathering. Whether you want to keep things calm or add some holiday cheer, these sips have you covered.

Pumpkin Pie Martini Mocktail. Photo credit: My Mocktail Forest.

Classic Mint Julep Cocktail

A mint julep in a silver mint julep cup with sprigs of mint and a decanter of bourbon and other ingredients in the background. — Classic Mint Julep Cocktail. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

The Classic Mint Julep, ready in just 5 minutes with bourbon, mint, and simple syrup, is perfect for keeping spirits high when family are around. Its bold, refreshing flavor outshines store-bought options, making tough conversations a little easier. Served over crushed ice, it’s both effortless and impressive. This cocktail might just turn your relatives into the life of the party.
Get the Recipe: Classic Mint Julep Cocktail

Raspberry Mojito Cocktail

The Raspberry Mojito brings a twist to the classic Mojito with fresh raspberries, mint, lime, and rum for a vibrant, fruity sip. Quick to prepare in just 10 minutes, it’s a fun cocktail that keeps family gatherings lighthearted and festive. Its tangy sweetness keeps the mood lively and carefree. This is the drink that’ll keep everyone happily engaged all night.
Get the Recipe: Raspberry Mojito Cocktail

Jenessa’s Cadillac Margarita

Two cadillac margaritas in front of a bowl of citrus fruit. — Jenessa’s Cadillac Margarita. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Jenessa’s Cadillac Margarita, with premium tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur, makes holiday gatherings a bit more interesting in just 10 minutes. Its smooth, tangy flavor will easily upstage any punch bowl, while the salted rim adds the perfect touch. This cocktail keeps everyone focused on the drink rather than on conversation topics. Don’t be surprised if they’re coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Jenessa’s Cadillac Margarita

The Best Non-Alcoholic Hot Toddy Recipe

This Non-Alcoholic Hot Toddy brings all the cozy warmth of the original, making it perfect for keeping spirits high without the buzz. With a blend of lemon, honey, and spices, it’s a soothing drink that’s ready in minutes. This comforting choice is great for relaxing after a busy holiday day. Every sip feels like a cozy embrace—minus the morning-after regrets.
Get the Recipe: The Best Non-Alcoholic Hot Toddy Recipe

Fall Sangria with Apple Cider and Bourbon

A glass of red wine bourbon sangria with apple slices and cinnamon sticks sitting on a metal plate. — Fall Sangria with Apple Cider and Bourbon. Photo credit: fANNEtastic food.

This Fall Sangria with Apple Cider and Bourbon combines bourbon, red wine, and apple cider, making it a festive addition to any holiday spread. With the seasonal notes of apple and spices, it’s an easy make-ahead drink that encourages warm family conversations. This sangria keeps everyone coming back for more. Perfect for a relaxed, cozy gathering.
Get the Recipe: Fall Sangria with Apple Cider and Bourbon

Espresso Martini

The Espresso Martini blends vodka and espresso for a cocktail that’s both sophisticated and energizing, great for keeping the family sharp and lively. Ready in minutes, it’s a perfect choice for coffee lovers who need a little boost to handle holiday chatter. It’s bold and balanced, fitting for evening gatherings. Everyone will feel the buzz—minus the caffeine crash.
Get the Recipe: Espresso Martini

Azalea Cocktail

The Azalea Cocktail mixes gin, pineapple juice, and grenadine into a fruity, vibrant drink that brightens any holiday get-together. Its tropical flavor and eye-catching pink hue make it an easy, five-minute drink to add excitement to the table. This one’s all about making a statement and keeping attention on the drink rather than on family dynamics. Once served, it’s a conversation starter on its own.
Get the Recipe: Azalea Cocktail

Smoked Old Fashioned Cocktail

A glass of whiskey with oranges and a wooden stick. — Smoked Old Fashioned Cocktail. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

The Smoked Old Fashioned adds a smoky twist to the classic blend of bourbon, sugar, and bitters, creating a bold choice for family gatherings. Ready in 10 minutes, it’s a complex, refined drink that keeps everyone engaged. A large ice cube adds elegance, while the smoke brings a new level of flavor. This cocktail may end up being the night’s best conversation piece.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Old Fashioned Cocktail

Bob Marley Drink

A red yellow and green cocktail garnished with a cherry and cocktail umbrella. — Bob Marley Drink. Photo credit: Baking Beauty.

The Bob Marley Drink, with vibrant, fruity layers in a frozen slushie form, brings a playful touch to the family table. Its colorful presentation alone will soften any tension, and the drink’s tropical flair keeps things lighthearted. This frozen cocktail lets everyone unwind and keeps the vibe breezy. It’s a visual treat and a relaxing sip all in one.
Get the Recipe: Bob Marley Drink

Champagne Pomegranate Cocktail

The Champagne Pomegranate Cocktail blends champagne and tart pomegranate juice into a sparkling holiday drink in just 5 minutes. Its bubbly nature makes it perfect for toasting to festive moments, while its fresh taste keeps the energy up. This cocktail’s elegance brings a touch of celebration to any gathering. Sparkle up the room with every pour.
Get the Recipe: Champagne Pomegranate Cocktail

Ocean Water Cocktail

The Ocean Water Cocktail, made with coconut rum, blue curaçao, and lemon-lime soda, brings a fun, tropical touch to the holiday table. Ready in 5 minutes, its sweet citrus flavor keeps the mood light and laid-back, even with family around. This bright blue drink is all about keeping tensions low. It’s a playful sip that transports everyone to a more relaxing place.
Get the Recipe: Ocean Water Cocktail

Blue Hawaii Cocktail

The Blue Hawaii Cocktail combines rum, blue curaçao, pineapple juice, and sweet and sour mix for a tropical escape in a glass. In just 5 minutes, its beachy flavors and bright blue hue will lift spirits, making everyone forget about holiday stress. Served over ice, this drink makes the holiday season feel like a mini vacation. A fun, colorful pick that’s all about relaxation.
Get the Recipe: Blue Hawaii Cocktail

Sangria Margarita

The Sangria Margarita merges the fruity flavors of sangria with the bite of a margarita, creating a refreshing drink for holiday gatherings. With its vibrant flavors, this five-minute drink keeps everyone sipping and content through the night. A blend of two favorites, it’s designed to bring smiles and keep the spirit alive. This drink’s sure to be a hit among family.
Get the Recipe: Sangria Margarita

Empress 1908 Gin Sour Cocktail

Two empress 1908 gin sours next to a bottle of purple gin. — Empress 1908 Gin Sour Cocktail. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

The Empress 1908 Gin Sour mixes gin, lemon juice, and syrup, creating a striking purple cocktail ready in just 5 minutes. Its bold color and smooth flavor add sophistication to any family gathering, making it a drink that guests will remember. It’s an easy way to add a touch of elegance to the table. This cocktail turns every moment into something special.
Get the Recipe: Empress 1908 Gin Sour Cocktail

Pumpkin Pie Martini Mocktail

The Pumpkin Pie Martini Mocktail is a seasonal favorite, bringing the warm, comforting flavors of fall to any gathering without the alcohol. With a touch of sweetness and autumn spices, it’s easy to make and perfect for any holiday moment. This festive drink brings everyone together around the taste of the season. A sip of nostalgia that keeps everyone in good spirits.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pie Martini Mocktail