Whether you’re hosting a sit-down dinner or a cozy potluck, no Friendsgiving is complete without a festive drink (or two). These Friendsgiving drink ideas include creative cocktails and mocktails that are easy to make and perfect for sipping with your favorite people.

From bourbon to bubbly to non-alcoholic options, there’s something for everyone.

Cranberry Moscow Mule

The Cranberry Moscow Mule blends cranberry juice, lime, and ginger beer with a dash of warming spices. It’s a crisp, festive, and easy-to-make cocktail that adds a bold pop of fall flavor to your Friendsgiving drink menu.

What Makes a Good Friendsgiving Drink

The best Friendsgiving drinks taste like the season. Apple cider, cranberry, pear, pomegranate, ginger, maple, and warm spices like cinnamon and chai all fit right in next to turkey and stuffing. A good holiday drink should also be easy to make in a batch, so you are not stuck shaking cocktails one at a time while everyone else eats.

It also helps to have something for everyone. Some guests want a strong cocktail, some want something light and fizzy, and some do not drink at all. A menu with two cocktails and one or two mocktails covers almost every group.

How to Pick the Right Drinks From This List

For a welcome drink when guests arrive, go with something bubbly. The Cranberry Moscow Mule and the Apple Cider Bourbon Ginger Fizz are bright and crisp. The Pomegranate Friendsgiving Margaritas are a fun pick if your group likes tequila.

If you need a big batch for a crowd, the Sparkling Cranberry Punch and the Warm Mulled Apple Cider are the easiest. Both can be made in one large pot or bowl. The cider can also stay warm in a slow cooker all afternoon.

For guests who are skipping alcohol, the Maple Pear Sparkler and the Autumn Ginger Mocktail both feel special and festive. After dinner, serve the Chai White Russian with dessert, or pour a warm Bourbon Apple Cider for a cozy nightcap.

Prep Tips for Holiday Drinks

• Make the base ahead. Mix juices, syrups, and spirits in a pitcher the night before and keep it in the fridge. Add anything fizzy, like ginger beer or sparkling water, right before serving so it stays bubbly.
• Make extra ice. Plan on about 1 pound of ice per guest if you are serving cold drinks.
• Prep garnishes early. Slice apples, pears, and limes, and keep them covered in the fridge. A little lemon juice keeps apple and pear slices from browning.
• Most cocktails here can be made as mocktails. Swap the spirit for extra ginger beer, sparkling cider, or club soda.

How Much to Plan For

A simple rule is two drinks per guest for the first two hours, then one drink per guest for each hour after that. If you are serving a punch or cider, one gallon makes about 16 servings in 8 ounce cups. It is always a good idea to have plenty of water on the table too.

Quick FAQ

Can I make these drinks ahead of time?
Yes. Most can be mixed a day ahead without the bubbly parts. Store them covered in the fridge and stir before pouring.

What is the easiest drink for a big group?
Sparkling Cranberry Punch. It takes just a few minutes to mix, serves a crowd, and works for all ages.