The Rise of Non-Alcoholic Holiday Drinks and Where to Find Them

Holiday gatherings are no longer just about spiked eggnog and mulled wine. Non-alcoholic holiday drinks are taking center stage, offering festive options for those who want to celebrate without the buzz. The world of non-alcoholic beverages has never been more creative or accessible. Specialty brands and local shops are now offering everything from alcohol-free bubbly to zero-proof versions of classic favorites. These drinks bring sophistication, flavor, and inclusivity to any celebration. 

Non-Alcoholic Mulled Wine

Mulled wine is a holiday staple, but you don’t need alcohol to enjoy its warm, spiced flavors. Non-alcoholic mulled wine blends fruit juices with warming spices like cinnamon, cloves, and orange peel, offering a cozy and aromatic drink perfect for winter nights. Some brands even add hints of apple or cranberry juice for added tartness. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply curling up by the fire, non-alcoholic mulled wine provides the same rich, comforting experience as the traditional version. It’s available at many health food stores, such as Whole Foods, or online from companies like Ariel Vineyards and Fre Wines.

Cranberry Ginger Fizz

This refreshing mocktail is a perfect balance of sweet and tart, combining cranberry juice with a splash of ginger ale or ginger beer for a fizzy, slightly spicy kick. It’s garnished with a twist of lime or a few fresh cranberries for a colorful, festive touch. The cranberry provides the signature holiday flavor, while the ginger adds an unexpected depth of flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser. You can find pre-made cranberry ginger fizz drinks at specialty retailers like Trader Joe’s or make your own using fresh cranberry juice and your favorite ginger beverage.

Spiced Apple Cider

A classic holiday drink, apple cider is even more festive when it’s spiced up with ingredients like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Non-alcoholic spiced apple cider is easy to prepare at home by simmering apple juice with the spices or buying ready-made versions at the store. Many brands offer spiced cider that is perfect for warming up on cold evenings, such as the renowned brand Martinelli’s. Some variations include caramel or maple syrup for added richness, giving a luxurious twist to the simple beverage. You can find non-alcoholic spiced cider in most grocery stores or at farm stands during the fall and winter months.

Alcohol-Free Champagne

Non-alcoholic champagne has become a popular choice for toasts and celebrations. Made with the same methods as traditional champagne but without the fermentation process that produces alcohol, these sparkling wines maintain the bubbles and crisp taste we associate with champagne. Brands like Freixenet’s 0.0 range and Leitz offer quality alcohol-free versions that resemble the real deal, making them perfect for ringing in the New Year or celebrating other special occasions. These drinks provide an elegant and festive experience while remaining alcohol-free, and they can be found in most liquor stores or online.

Virgin Eggnog

Eggnog is a quintessential holiday drink, and the non-alcoholic version is just as delicious. Made with a base of milk, cream, sugar, and eggs, virgin eggnog is traditionally spiced with nutmeg and cinnamon, offering a creamy, indulgent flavor. Some versions also include vanilla for added sweetness. You can find ready-made eggnog at most grocery stores during the holiday season, with options from brands like Silk and Horizon Organic. Alternatively, you can make your own eggnog at home and adjust the spices to your liking, ensuring a festive, alcohol-free treat.

Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Hot chocolate is another beloved holiday drink, and adding a touch of peppermint turns it into a holiday classic. Non-alcoholic peppermint hot chocolate can be made by mixing your favorite cocoa with a few drops of peppermint extract, creating a refreshing twist on the standard version. Top it with whipped cream, crushed peppermint candies, or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for a festive touch. You can find peppermint hot chocolate mixes at stores like Starbucks, Target, or local coffee shops, or prepare it easily at home by adding peppermint to your regular hot cocoa recipe.

Pomegranate Spritz

Pomegranate is a popular fruit during the holidays due to its bright color and tart flavor. A non-alcoholic pomegranate spritz combines pomegranate juice with sparkling water, creating a bubbly and refreshing beverage that’s perfect for holiday celebrations. You can garnish it with a sprig of rosemary or a few pomegranate seeds to enhance the visual appeal. It’s available at most specialty grocery stores, or you can make it at home by mixing pomegranate juice and seltzer, adjusting the proportions to suit your taste.

Non-Alcoholic Bloody Mary

The Bloody Mary is a brunch favorite, and the non-alcoholic version offers all the savory, spicy goodness without the alcohol. Made with tomato juice, horseradish, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and various spices, it’s a bold and flavorful option for those who want to enjoy the taste of a cocktail without the buzz. Brands like Seedlip and Lyre’s offer non-alcoholic Bloody Mary mixes that are pre-seasoned for convenience. You can find these mixes at many health food stores or online, or you can prepare your own using fresh ingredients and your favorite spices.

Non-Alcoholic Hot Toddy

The hot toddy is known for its soothing qualities, especially in the winter months. A non-alcoholic version swaps out whiskey for warm herbal tea or lemon-infused water, combining it with honey, lemon juice, and cinnamon for a comforting and cozy drink. It’s perfect for unwinding after a long day or for sipping while curled up with a good book. You can find non-alcoholic hot toddy blends at specialty stores or create your own with herbal teas like chamomile or ginger, mixing in lemon and honey for a therapeutic, alcohol-free drink.

Non-Alcoholic Mojito

The mojito is a refreshing cocktail typically made with rum, mint, lime, and sugar. In a non-alcoholic mojito, the rum is replaced with soda water or tonic, creating a crisp, minty mocktail that’s perfect for festive gatherings. You can make this mocktail by muddling fresh mint leaves and lime, adding sugar or simple syrup, and topping it off with ice and sparkling water. Non-alcoholic mojito mixes are available at various online retailers and can also be easily crafted at home with a few fresh ingredients.

Berry Lemonade Spritz

A sweet and tangy mocktail that combines fresh berries with lemonade and sparkling water, the berry lemonade spritz is a perfect drink for summer holidays or any time you want a fruity, refreshing beverage. The berries—often strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries—provide vibrant color and flavor, while the lemonade offers tartness that is balanced out by the fizzy water. This drink can be served over ice with fresh mint for garnish. You can find pre-mixed berry lemonade spritz beverages at many grocery stores or create your own with simple ingredients from the produce aisle.

Citrus Mojito Mocktail

Citrus fruits like orange, lime, and lemon are widely used during the holidays, and a citrus mojito mocktail brings these flavors together in a bright, flavorful drink. Mixing citrus juice with soda water and mint creates a refreshing, tropical-inspired mocktail that feels like a celebration in a glass. Add a splash of simple syrup for sweetness, and you have a drink that’s perfect for toasts or casual sipping. You can find ready-made citrus mojito mocktails at some grocery stores or easily whip one up at home using fresh ingredients.

Non-Alcoholic Irish Coffee

For those who enjoy the warmth of coffee during the holidays but don’t want the alcohol, a non-alcoholic Irish coffee is the perfect solution. Made with hot coffee, a little sugar, and a generous dollop of whipped cream, this drink offers a creamy, satisfying treat without the whiskey. Some brands now offer non-alcoholic Irish coffee syrups that you can mix into your hot coffee for a similar flavor profile. Available in most grocery stores or coffee shops, this version of Irish coffee lets you enjoy the festive taste without the alcohol content.

Sparkling Apple and Pear Cider

Apple and pear cider is a naturally sweet beverage that makes an excellent base for non-alcoholic holiday drinks. When carbonated, it becomes a festive, sparkling option that rivals champagne in its elegance. The combination of crisp apple and pear flavors, along with bubbles, makes for a perfect celebratory drink. Brands like Martinelli’s and R.W. Knudsen offer sparkling apple and pear ciders that are available at most grocery stores during the holiday season. These beverages are great on their own or can be used as mixers for mocktails.

Non-Alcoholic Old Fashioned Mocktail

The Old Fashioned cocktail is a classic favorite, and its non-alcoholic counterpart is just as satisfying, offering a sophisticated way to enjoy the flavors of the iconic drink without the alcohol. The non-alcoholic Old Fashioned mocktail typically includes a blend of orange bitters (non-alcoholic), simple syrup, and muddled cherries, with a splash of soda or ginger ale to create the perfect balance of sweetness and spice. To elevate the drink, a slice of orange or lemon peel is added, infusing the mocktail with a hint of citrus and a beautiful aroma. Some variations use non-alcoholic whiskey or rye substitutes to mimic the original flavor even more closely, giving the drink a more authentic Old Fashioned experience. This mocktail works wonderfully as a sophisticated option at holiday parties, appealing to both non-drinkers and those looking for a break from alcohol. You can find ready-made versions of this mocktail at specialty bars or retailers such as Seedlip, or craft your own using ingredients from local grocery stores.

This article originally appeared on RetailShout.

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