What’s a festive Thanksgiving dinner without party beverages, right? While I understand the appeal of drowning in liquor and forgetting about tomorrow, not all of us like the taste of alcoholic drinks or can consume them.
So, here are a couple of non-alcoholic Thanksgiving drinks that guests of all ages can enjoy. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just want something special to sip on while cooking, these recipes bring the warmth and spirit of the season right into your glass.
1. Mulled Apple Cider
This one’s a classic for a reason. Warm apple cider infused with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and orange peel is basically fall in liquid form. The aroma alone is enough to make your kitchen feel like a cozy cabin retreat.
I like simmering mine slowly on the stove, letting the spices deepen and mingle. It’s also great for making the house smell incredible before guests arrive. For extra flair, garnish with a cinnamon stick or a thin apple slice.
If you’re ready to get started, click here.
2. Thanksgiving Punch (Ginger Ale, Cranberry, and Orange Juice)
This punch is bright, bubbly, and bursting with fall fruit flavor. The mix of ginger ale, cranberry juice, and orange juice hits that perfect balance of tangy, sweet, and refreshing. You can also float a few orange slices and fresh cranberries on top.
You can even make a big batch ahead of time for easy serving. It’s cheerful, fizzy, and totally family-friendly.
Want to try it for your holiday table? Click here.
3. Cranberry Apple Shrub
If you’ve never made a shrub before, it’s basically a sweet-tart syrup made with fruit and vinegar—perfect for mocktails. This cranberry apple version is crisp, tangy, and so refreshing, especially when topped with sparkling water.
I like to use apple cider vinegar for a milder, fruity acidity that ties everything together. It’s an unexpected hit at every gathering, especially for guests who want something complex but not alcoholic.
Ready to impress your guests? Click here.
4. Cranberry Mocktail
Cranberry juice is such a holiday staple, and this mocktail turns it into something truly special. Mix it with a splash of lime juice and a bit of sparkling water for that festive fizz.
Try to rim the glass with sugar or crushed candy cane for a little sparkle; simple but fun. It’s bright, tart, and gorgeous in color, making it perfect for any Thanksgiving toast.
If you want to recreate this at home, click here.
5. Pumpkin Pie Cold Brew
This one’s for the coffee lovers. Smooth cold brew gets dressed up with pumpkin puree, warm spices, and a touch of maple syrup.
Top it with foamed milk or whipped cream if you’re feeling indulgent. It tastes like pumpkin pie in a cup. It’s cozy, caffeinated, and absolutely delicious.
You have to give this a try: click here.
6. Autumn Punch
Think of this as fall in a bowl—apple cider, pear juice, and a hint of cinnamon all come together with sparkling water for a light, golden punch. The flavors are subtle yet deeply comforting, like a crisp autumn breeze in drink form.
I like to add a few slices of pear or star anise for a decorative touch. It’s refreshing enough for any time of day but still feels festive.
Level up your punch game: click here.
7. Rosemary Ginger Mule
This twist on a classic mule uses ginger beer (non-alcoholic, of course) mixed with fresh lime juice and a homemade rosemary syrup. The rosemary adds a savory note that pairs beautifully with all the rich Thanksgiving dishes.
It’s a drink that feels sophisticated without trying too hard. I recommend serving it in a copper mug with crushed ice for the full experience.
Want to shake things up this year? Click here.
8. Sparkling Holiday Punch
A sparkling blend of white grape juice, club soda, and a splash of pineapple or cranberry juice makes this punch both festive and light. It’s effervescent, fruity, and super easy to customize.
Add mint for freshness or sliced oranges for a citrusy twist. It’s crowd-pleasing and elegant all at once.
For an easy, sparkling showstopper, click here.
9. Pineapple Mocktail
This tropical twist adds sunshine to your Thanksgiving spread. Pineapple juice meets a bit of coconut water and a squeeze of lime for something bright, sweet, and refreshing.
I like to garnish it with mint leaves and a pineapple wedge. It’s great for balancing out heavier dishes with a splash of tropical lightness.
For a fun and fruity refreshment, click here.
10. Classic Sweet Iced Tea
Sometimes the simplest drinks are the most comforting. Sweet iced tea is timeless, especially when you add a touch of lemon and mint. Brew it strong, chill it well, and sweeten it to taste
Keep a pitcher of this on hand during Thanksgiving prep. Garnish each glass with a slice of lemon and some sprigs of mint if you’re feeling a bit fancy.
For a classic drink everyone loves, click here.
Sip, Smile, and Savor the Season
Thanksgiving drinks don’t have to come with a kick to make the night feel special. These non-alcoholic sips are proof that you can have all the flavor, warmth, and celebration without the booze.
So grab your favorite glass, fill it to the brim, and toast to gratitude, good food, and great company. Cheers to a Thanksgiving everyone can raise a glass to.
Featured image credit: @sugarandcharm
