Best Non-Alcoholic Cocktails for the Holidays

Looking to get into the spirits without getting into the spirits? These festive mocktails are here to help.

Here are some of our favourites from years past:

Cranberry-Apple Cider Punch
(Modified from here)

A fizzy and refreshing taste of the season that’s super easy to make! In a punch bowl or large pitcher, stir together:

1 litre of unsweetened apple cider, chilled
2 cups cranberry juice cocktail, chilled
2 cups ginger ale, chilled
1 can (12oz.) frozen orange juice concentrate

When serving, add some orange slices, berries, or red and green apple slices for garnish. For extra festive cuteness, use frozen cranberries instead of ice cubes.

Hot Not Toddy
(Modified from here)

Doing some outdoor socializing this season? Stay toasty without getting toasted!

Get your measuring spoons out and get these things into a mug for a single serving:

  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (grated, or 1 cinnamon stick)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cloves
  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg (ground)
  • 1 teabag (your choice, but we love this with Chai)

Pour hot water over it and give it a good stir. Add a lemon wedge if you’re feeling fancy.

Blood Orange Italian Sodas
(Modified from here)

This combination of sparkling water, coconut cream, and blood orange syrup feels like a grownup creamsicle.

To make the blood orange syrup, you’ll need:

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • the juice of 3 blood oranges
In a medium-sized sauce pan, add the sugar and water and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and stir in the blood orange juice.

To serve, pour ½ cup of sparkling water in a glass, followed by 2 or 3 tablespoons of the syrup and a ¼ cup of coconut cream, and garnish.

Definitely Not Gin & Tonic

Not into the sweet stuff?

Try mixing Campari Crodino or a few dashes of non-alcoholic bitters (Cocktail Emporium in Toronto has a selection) with soda or tonic water to enjoy a less sweet but equally special mocktail.

About the Authors

Renascent Staff
The staff at Renascent is passionate about helping people with substance addictions so they can reach their full recovery – with compassion, respect, empathy and understanding. Our staff includes our counsellors, all of whom have lived experience of addiction and recovery.