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Throwing a Unique Holiday Cocktail Party

The holidays are a perfect time to experiment with fun new cocktails and mocktails as friends and family come over for holiday parties. And while it may seem overwhelming to narrow down your menu, I’m here to help you plan the perfect balanced yet unique list of cocktails that will have something for everyone, along with some unique cocktails that will leave your guests impressed.

First, let’s start with the essentials to set the scene: twinkle lights, candles, light holiday decorations, and the perfect soundtrack. I love a jazzy, cheerful holiday soundtrack with lots of instrumental tracks and some Sinatra and Harry Connick Jr. mixed in.

To start of the drinks you’ll want to have a selection of wine and bubbly, or maybe a sangria as a safe choice for the more reserved palate. I love a citrus-based drink such as a blood orange sangria, which is easy to make ahead and the perfect easy pairing for a spread of holiday appetizers. You can also have some chilled bottles of champagne on hand, which make a great “palette cleanser” between more dynamic drinks.

Oh! And a quick note on food: you don’t need to have a full sit-down meal with multiple courses for a cocktail party. A selection of hors d’oeuvres and other finger foods are all you need to keep your guests happy. I love making a variety of dips (hummus, guacamole, artichoke dip) along side a good cheese board, a crockpot of meatballs, and a bruschetta board. These are all easy crowd-pleasers so you can focus the attention on some dynamic cocktails!

In terms of cocktails, I love a holiday-themed cocktail with warm spices and then a fun unique cocktail that will leave guests pleasantly surprised. The good news? You don’t have to go to a fancy liquor store to get what you need to make a unique cocktail. All you need is a jar of Bubbies Pickles!

Pickle brine is a surprisingly perfect addition to cocktails: it balances well with other standard cocktail ingredients and makes a smooth, mellow cocktail that goes down easy while still being unique enough to be memorable. It’s also the perfect complement to standard party appetizers. Plus, if you use Bubbies Kosher Dill Pickles you can serve the crisp, delicious pickles with your appetizers and then use the brine in your cocktails. Who doesn’t love a party planning two-for-one?

On my menu this year is a Dill Gin and Tonic made with the brine from Bubbies naturally fermented Kosher Dill Pickles. Of course, the fun doesn’t end with gin and tonics. You can also make Martinis,  Whiskey Sours, and even Margaritas with their brine. No matter what direction you want to go with your menu, Bubbies has a way to help you keep things interesting for a cocktail party to remember!

I can’t wait to see your IG pictures from your cocktail parties. Cheers!