24 Christmas in July Cocktails
Updated: Jun. 25, 2021
Cool off with these festive Christmas in July cocktails. We have very merry ideas for slushes, martinis, sangrias and other chilly holiday sips.
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Frozen Brandy Old-Fashioneds
Both sides of my family are Midwestern, so our strong brandy tradition is evident in the slush we make for the holidays and in the Wisconsin old-fashioned cocktails we enjoy year-round. I decided to combine those recipes into something completely new. This goes very quickly at gatherings! —Stephanie Vaughan, Madison, Wisconsin
This drink pairs perfectly with Christmas in July cookies.
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Santa’s Orange-Kissed Cocktail
Refreshing but not overly sweet, this drink is a festive choice for Christmas get-togethers. Serve it during cocktail hour, at dinner or even for brunch in place of mimosas. —Claire Beattie, Toronto, OntarioCelebrate Christmas in July with a Hallmark movie marathon.
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Cranberry-Lime Sangria
Tart, light and fruity, this party-worthy sangria is a hit any time of the year. —Katy Joosten, Little Chute, Wisconsin
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Sparkling Apple Pie on the Rocks
This is the perfect fall cocktail. Apple cider mixed with a cinnamon caramel apple simple syrup and topped with bubbly—it's the best holiday drink ever! —Becky Hardin, St. Peters, MissouriCraving something savory? These Christmas in July appetizers hit the spot.
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Rubies on Ice
Ginger and pomegranate are made for each other, and the color of this beverage is tantalizing. If you're looking for a nonalcoholic option, you can easily leave out the vodka for a delicious and festive drink! —Tara Deshpande, New York, New York
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Whiskey-Brandy Slush
It may be cold outside, but we like to serve this icy citrus drink for Christmas gatherings at our house. It is fantastic for parties and large gatherings, and it keeps well in the freezer. —Joan Shoebottom, Lexington, Michigan
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Cranberry Bourbon
The subtle tang of cranberry and the warm winter spices make this bourbon just right for holiday toasts—neat, on the rocks or in a cocktail. —James Schend, Dairy FreedThis is a great drink to serve after your Christmas in July dinner.
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Apple Amaretto Sours
An amaretto sour has always been one of my favorite cocktails. This version has a special touch that makes it perfect for enjoying throughout the holiday season. —Amber Forbes, Roper, North Carolina
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Sparkling Cider Sangria
Adding orange and cranberry juices transforms apple cider into a pretty holiday drink. This quick and easy alcohol-free beverage is absolutely delicious. A friend shared the recipe with me years ago, and I made a few changes. It's a huge hit at holiday brunches! —Joan Hallford, North Richland Hills, Texas
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Cranberry Sparkler
The flavors of this refreshing cran-raspberry cocktail are great any time of year. In winter, the cranberry makes it a good fit for holiday parties; on a warm summer's night, the raspberry comes to the fore. It's a favorite for our girls' night! —Susan Stetzel, Gainesville, New YorkGet ready to celebrate—we’ll help you plan the perfect Christmas in July party. (Bonus points if you put up some beach Christmas decor, too.)
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Brandy Slush
This slush with a hint of citrus keeps you cool on hot summer days. Even if you're not a tea lover, you'll likely find the mix of flavors pleasing. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
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Chocolate Candy Cane Martinis
A peppermint martini is perfect for a fun Christmastime gathering of friends. Crushed candy canes on the rim add festive flair. —Crystal Schlueter, Babbitt, Minnesota
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Pear & Ginger Sparkler
I created this twist on a Bellini when a friend gave me some Asian pears she grew in her backyard. If you like ginger and want more of a kick, try substituting ginger liqueur for the vodka. —Jacyn Siebert, San Francisco, California
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Cranberry-Orange Vodka Slush
Years ago, my mother made a rosy and refreshing party drink I’ve never forgotten. The sparkle comes from fruit juices, vodka and lemon-lime soda. —Melinda Strable, Ankeny, Iowa
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Pumpkin Pie Shots
Grown-up treats that feature canned pumpkin and butterscotch schnapps will lure guests back for more. The gelatin shots are made ahead, so they're a great party starter. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
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Holiday Mimosa
Add a splash of color to your brunch table with this rosy holiday mimosa. It has a fantastic sweet-tart taste. —Jessie Sarrazin, Livingston, Montana
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Apricot Brandy Slush
While spending the summer in New Mexico, we tasted this refreshing golden color tea beverage enhanced with something borrowed from the cocktail world: apricot brandy.—Shirley Miller, Williamsport, PA
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Cranberry-Jalapeno Martini
I describe this cocktail as slightly tart, a little sassy and completely delicious. I make a big batch when I'm hosting a party because it tends to disappear quickly. Garnish with fresh mint and cranberries for an extra-special touch. —Kelli Haetinger, Virginia Beach, Virginia
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Bubbly Champagne Punch
This champagne punch, served at my wedding, continues to this day to be the elegant drink we serve at special events. —Anita Geoghagan, Woodstock, Georgia
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Blackberry Brandy Slush
We wanted a fun twist on a slushy made with tea and fruit juice, so we used blackberry brandy. The deep red color makes it very merry. —Lindsey Spinler, Sobieski, Wisconsin
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Butterscotch Martinis
The rich flavors of butterscotch and chocolate pair up for a nightcap that will satisfy any sweet tooth. —Clara M. Coulson Minney, Washington Court House, Ohio
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Bourbon Slush
At our holiday parties, Bourbon Slush is definitely a favorite. Have fun experimenting with different teas when you make it. We like black tea, green tea and orange spice. —Darcene Sigler, Louisville, Ohio
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Cranberry Orange Mimosas
Mimosas are just so elegant for Sunday brunch. My recipe uses tart cranberries to balance the sweetness of champagne and orange juice. —Shannon Stephens, Lake in the Hills, Illinois
Originally Published: May 04, 2021
