Thanksgiving.

I think about turkey.  And stuffing.  And potatoes-n-gravy.  And pumpkin pie.  And probably most excitedly, I think about giggling in the corner of my kitchen with some fun ladies while enjoying a cocktail (or four) and some great catch up. For me, the holidays really are all about celebrating family and friends.  People you care about, from near and far, devotedly spending time gathered around a table and reminiscing on old and planning for new.  Thanksgiving offers us an opportunity to reflect on our bountiful blessings and share a feast with those we love.

You may need help coming up with some festive libations to serve (or, let’s be honest, something to help you get through the feast with those for whom the word “love” is a bit of a stretch). The following is a list of my top 5 Thanksgiving drink ideas.  Enjoy!

1. Pumpkin Apple Shandy

Photo Cred: With Salt and Wit Blog

Oh, my.  This recipe literally makes my mouth water.  It absolutely screams Fall and leaves all kinds of room for experimenting.  With a simple ratio of 1:1 beer and apple cider it would be simple to make it your own with some freshly grated nutmeg, a sprinkle of cinnamon and, of course, your favorite craft beer.  Find the recipe over at With Salt and Wit.

2. Caramel Apple Sangria

Photo Credit: The Wholesome Dish

Here we have another spiked cider drink with the developed flavor of a sangria.  Based with a bottle of Pinot Grigio, the addition of Caramel flavored vodka takes this delightful drink to a different level.  In my house, when the vodka’s invited to the party, things start getting all kinds of more fun.  Find the recipe over at The Wholesome Dish.

3. Boozy Pumpkin White Hot Chocolate

Photo Credit: Minimalist Baker

Are you sensing a theme here?  Apparently I can’t think “Holiday Drink” without the booze.    But this little gem of a hot number sounds delicious, doesn’t it?  White chocolate, milk, kahlua and pumpkin puree?! Guys!  This is totes a health drink. I’m pretty sure pumpkin’s like a super food or something. Find the recipe at Minimalist Baker.

4. Crockpot Nutella Hot Chocolate

Photo Credit: My Mommy Style

Yasssss mama.  This one speaks to me on all kinds of different levels.  Crockpot?  Love.  Nutella? Love.  Hot Chocolate?  Love.  Throw this creamy goodness-sent-from-heaven in the slow cooker and keep it going all day long. This would be a perfect post-Black Friday shopping treat…serious shoppers may need to replenish some electrolytes after shoving carts into people’s ankles all morning.   Find the recipe at My Mommy Style.

5. Pumpkin Spice Mudslide

Photo Credit: Meet the Sullivans

Git en mah bellah!  Anyone?  Anyone?  Just me?  This dessert in a glass will definitely be making an appearance this holiday season.  It stars all of my best friend’s…Bailey’s, whipped cream vodka, pumpkin puree!!  We have here another health food, folks!  I can see whipping this up and savoring it over a bunch of Black Friday ads and my ever-growing Christmas shopping list.  Find the recipe at Meet The Sullivans.

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Since my choices are a bit liquor-heavy, not to worry you teetotalers or peeps under 21, most drinks can be served sans liquor and still be yummy for your tummy and substantially less damaging to your liver. I hope you find something you like here and maybe give me a visit over on Pinterest.  Follow my Thanksgiving drink ideas board for some more great ideas!

Happy drinking!

Mindy