Thanksgiving Drinks: 5 Refreshing Cheers for Joyful Gatherings

november 19, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Ah, Thanksgiving! It’s that magical time of year when family and friends gather around the table, sharing laughter and love. And what could make those moments even better than a delicious, refreshing drink? My *thanksgiving drinks* are not just beverages; they’re a celebration in a glass! Imagine a beautiful pitcher filled with vibrant cranberry and orange juices, sparkling water, and a hint of fresh mint, all waiting to tickle your taste buds. These drinks elevate your festive gatherings, providing a bubbly, cheerful touch that complements everything from turkey to pumpkin pie. Trust me, your guests will love sipping on these delightful concoctions as they enjoy the holiday spirit!

Ingredients List

1 cup cranberry juice (choose 100% juice for the best flavor)
1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed is ideal, but store-bought works too)
2 cups sparkling water (look for unsweetened to keep it refreshing)
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves (lightly torn to release their aroma)
Ice cubes (for that perfect chill)

How to Prepare Thanksgiving Drinks

Getting these *thanksgiving drinks* ready is a breeze, and I promise they’ll impress your guests! Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this festive refreshment.

Step 1: Combine Juices

First things first, grab a large pitcher and pour in that lovely cranberry juice and orange juice. I love using 100% juice for the best flavor! Gently stir them together until they’re well blended. The vibrant colors alone will get everyone excited!

Step 2: Add Sparkling Water

Next up, it’s time to add the sparkling water. Pour it in slowly, and give it a gentle stir—this helps keep that lovely fizz intact! You want those bubbles to dance and add a festive sparkle to your drink.

Step 3: Incorporate Mint Leaves

Now, let’s add that fresh mint! Lightly tear the mint leaves to release their wonderful aroma, then toss them into the pitcher. Stir it all together just a bit; you want the mint to infuse its freshness without overpowering the drink.

Step 4: Serve Over Ice

Finally, grab some ice cubes and fill your favorite glasses. Pour that gorgeous mixture over the ice, and watch it come to life! Your drinks are now ready to be enjoyed—cheers to a refreshing sip of holiday spirit!

Tips for Success

To make the most of your *thanksgiving drinks*, here are a few handy tips! First, don’t hesitate to adjust the sweetness; if you prefer a sweeter drink, simply add a bit more cranberry or orange juice to taste. If you’re feeling fancy, garnish each glass with extra mint leaves or even a slice of orange for that extra festive flair. And remember, you can prepare this drink ahead of time! Just mix everything and refrigerate it until your guests arrive. This way, you can spend more time enjoying the celebration and less time in the kitchen. Cheers to that!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to *thanksgiving drinks*, you can enjoy the festivities without the guilt! Here’s a quick look at the nutritional values per serving (about 1 cup):

Calories: 80
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 10mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg

As you can see, these drinks are light and refreshing, making them a perfect choice for your Thanksgiving gathering. Enjoy the burst of flavor without worrying about heavy calories!

FAQ Section

Can I make this drink ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep these *thanksgiving drinks* ahead of time, which is a total lifesaver during the busy holiday season. Just mix all the juices and sparkling water together, and store it in the refrigerator. I recommend adding the mint leaves right before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant. This way, you can relax and enjoy the festivities without being stuck in the kitchen!

What can I substitute for sparkling water?

If you don’t have sparkling water on hand, no worries! You can use club soda or even tonic water for a slightly different flavor. Just keep in mind that tonic water will add a hint of sweetness, so adjust your juice quantities accordingly. You could also try ginger ale for a fun twist—it’s bubbly and brings a warm spice to the drink!

How can I adjust the sweetness of the drink?

Adjusting the sweetness is super easy! If you like it sweeter, just add a bit more cranberry or orange juice until it hits the right spot for you. You can also consider adding a splash of simple syrup or agave nectar if you want to go that route. Just make sure to taste as you go, so you get that perfect balance of flavors!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Super easy to whip up in just 10 minutes—perfect for busy holiday prep!
Deliciously refreshing and festive, making it a hit at any Thanksgiving gathering.
Utilizes simple, wholesome ingredients that everyone can enjoy.
Completely customizable—adjust sweetness or add your favorite garnishes!
Light and healthy, so you can sip guilt-free during the festivities.
Can be made ahead of time, leaving you free to enjoy the company of your guests.
Bright, colorful presentation that adds a cheerful touch to your table.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your *thanksgiving drinks* is a breeze! If you have any leftovers, simply transfer the drink to an airtight container and pop it in the refrigerator. It’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days. Just remember to give it a good stir before serving again, as the ingredients may settle a bit.

As for reheating, here’s the scoop: these drinks are best enjoyed chilled, so I don’t recommend heating them up. The sparkling water loses its fizz when heated, and we definitely want those refreshing bubbles! Just pour over fresh ice, and you’re good to go for another round of holiday cheer. Cheers!

Serving Suggestions

Pairing your delightful *thanksgiving drinks* with the right snacks can truly elevate the whole festive experience! Here are a few tasty ideas that will complement those vibrant flavors perfectly:

Cheese Platter: A selection of sharp cheddar, creamy brie, and tangy goat cheese alongside some crackers makes for a perfect nibble. The richness of the cheese balances beautifully with the refreshing drink.
Vegetable Crudités: Fresh, crunchy veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers served with a creamy dip add a nice, healthy crunch. The freshness matches the minty notes in your drink.
Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites filled with cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs are a crowd-pleaser. Their savory flavor contrasts wonderfully with the sweetness of the juices.
Mini Pumpkin Pies: What’s Thanksgiving without a little pumpkin? These sweet treats enhance the holiday spirit and pair nicely with the citrusy notes of your drinks!
Roasted Nuts: A bowl of assorted roasted nuts provides a satisfying crunch and salty flavor that plays off the sweetness of the drink beautifully.

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create a spread that suits your gathering. Trust me, your guests will appreciate the extra thought you put into making their experience delightful!