There’s something magical about holiday drinks. They’re like a warm hug on a cold winter night, a taste of tradition, and a link to celebrations that have been passed down through generations. You could be sipping something creamy and sweet or spicy and warming, holiday drinks have a way of bringing people together.
What’s fascinating is how every culture has its own take on festive beverages. Some are go back to centuries-old rituals, while others are creative spins on more modern flavors. Either way, these drinks tell stories about their origins, the people who made them, and the traditions they represent.
Grab your favorite mug or glass as we journey across the globe, discovering 14 traditional holiday drinks that capture the joy, warmth, and flavors of the season. You might even find a new favorite to toast with this year.
1. Eggnog – United States
Eggnog is a Christmas classic in the United States, a rich and creamy drink that feels indulgent and festive. It’s made by whisking together milk, cream, eggs, sugar, and a hint of nutmeg for spice.
Although eggnog feels quintessentially American, it actually traces its roots to medieval England, where a similar drink called posset was made with hot milk and ale. Over time, colonists in the U.S. added rum, bourbon, or brandy, creating the modern version that’s a staple at holiday parties today.
2. Mulled Wine – Germany
Germany’s Glühwein is a holiday market essential, filling the air with its warm, spiced aroma. Made by heating red wine with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, it’s sweetened with sugar and garnished with orange slices for a citrusy twist.
This tradition harks back to the Romans, who used spiced wine to ward off the cold. Glühwein has since become a European winter favorite, often customized with shots of amaretto or rum for an extra kick.
3. Coquito – Puerto Rico
Coquito, often called Puerto Rican eggnog, is a tropical twist on the creamy holiday beverage. It’s made with coconut milk, condensed milk, cinnamon, nutmeg, and, of course, a generous splash of rum.
Families in Puerto Rico have their own coquito recipes, some adding unique touches like vanilla extract or cloves. Served chilled, it’s a sweet and spiced reminder of the island’s vibrant culture during the holiday season.
4. Glogg – Sweden
Swedish Glogg takes mulled wine to the next level by adding raisins and almonds to the mix. Made with red wine, port, or brandy, it’s spiced with cloves, cinnamon, and cardamom, creating a rich and aromatic drink.
Glogg has been a staple at Swedish holiday gatherings for centuries, often paired with saffron buns or ginger snaps. The tradition is all about savoring the warmth and sweetness of the season.
5. Amazake – Japan
Amazake, a Japanese holiday favorite, is a sweet and creamy drink made from fermented rice. Its low alcohol content and mild sweetness make it a comforting treat for all ages.
Dating back to the Kofun period (3rd to 7th century), Amazake is especially popular at shrines during New Year celebrations, symbolizing health and prosperity for the year ahead.
6. Sorrel Drink – Jamaica
Sorrel drink, with its vibrant red hue, is a Jamaican holiday staple. It’s made by steeping dried hibiscus petals with ginger, cloves, and allspice, then sweetened to taste. Rum is often added for a boozy version.
This refreshing yet spiced beverage has African roots and is particularly popular during Christmas and New Year’s celebrations. Its tangy flavor pairs perfectly with traditional Jamaican holiday dishes.
7. Cola de Mono – Chile
Cola de Mono, or “Monkey’s Tail,” is a Chilean holiday drink with a quirky name and an irresistible flavor. Made with milk, coffee, cloves, cinnamon, and aguardiente (a local spirit), it’s similar to eggnog but with a coffee twist.
The name’s origins are debated, but one story ties it to a politician nicknamed “Monkey” who loved the drink. Regardless of its backstory, Cola de Mono is a holiday favorite in Chilean households.
8. Ponche Navideño – Mexico
Ponche Navideño, or Mexican Christmas punch, is a warm and fruity holiday drink. It’s made with tejocotes (a type of hawthorn fruit), guavas, tamarind, cinnamon, and sugar cane, creating a blend of sweet and tart flavors.
Served during posadas (re-enactments of Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter), Ponche Navideño is both a festive treat and a symbol of Mexican holiday traditions.
9. Irish Coffee – Ireland
Irish coffee is the perfect blend of strong coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and a thick layer of cream. It’s served warm, making it a favorite on cold winter nights or after a festive meal.
Created in the 1940s to warm up travelers arriving in Ireland, this drink has become a global favorite. It’s as much about the hospitality as it is about the flavor.
10. Feuerzangenbowle – Germany
Feuerzangenbowle, which translates to “fire-tongs punch,” is as dramatic as it sounds. Mulled wine is infused with a flaming sugar cone soaked in rum, creating a caramelized flavor that’s as festive as the preparation.
This drink is a highlight of German holiday parties, where the fire adds a touch of spectacle to the season’s warmth and cheer.
11. Tsokolate – Philippines
Tsokolate is a rich Filipino hot chocolate made from tablea, or pure cacao tablets. Dissolved in hot water or milk, it’s thick, slightly bitter, and often served with rice cakes during Noche Buena (Christmas Eve).
This drink reflects the Philippines’ deep cacao heritage, offering a comforting blend of history and flavor.
12. Hot Buttered Rum – United States
Hot buttered rum is a warm and indulgent holiday drink made with rum, butter, sugar, and spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. It’s been a winter favorite in the U.S. since colonial times.
This rich beverage is perfect for sipping by the fire, offering a taste of nostalgia and comfort during the holiday season.
13. Wassail – England
Wassail is a traditional English drink made from hot cider or ale spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and ginger. Its name comes from the Old English toast “waes hael,” meaning “be well.”
Historically, wassailing involved carolers visiting homes to spread cheer in exchange for a cup of this festive drink. Today, it’s a warm and cozy reminder of community spirit.
14. Anijsmelk – Netherlands
Anijsmelk, or “anise milk,” is a simple yet soothing drink from the Netherlands. It’s made by heating milk with anise seeds or powder, then sweetening it with sugar to taste. Its warm, aromatic flavor makes it the perfect remedy for cold winter nights.
Traditionally associated with Dutch home remedies, anijsmelk is also enjoyed during the holiday season as a cozy alternative to more festive or boozy drinks. It’s a favorite for quiet evenings by the fire.
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Why settle for predictable? Side dishes can complement the main event while showcasing your creativity. They’re the supporting cast with the potential to steal the spotlight. You can surprise your guests by tweaking the classics, elevating the menu, and leaving everyone talking about something other than the turkey.
Here are the tips you’ve been looking for if your holiday spread could use some fresh inspiration. If you like the same old spread, that’s okay too, but for anyone bored, give these ideas a try!
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From the comfort of buttery tarts to the spiced kick of mulled wine, holiday goodies have a way of connecting us. They make us nostalgic and encourage us to explore the world, one bite at a time. Let’s explore 14 cherished holiday treats and the traditions that make them so special.
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Admittedly, I am one of those health-conscious individuals (aka a health nut). I love learning about the latest cutting-edge research, trying out new products, or finding ways to change my daily habits to see how they impact my health.
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With an honors degree in financial engineering, Omega Ukama deeply understands finance. Before pursuing journalism, he honed his skills at a private equity firm, giving him invaluable real-world experience. This combination of financial literacy and journalistic flair allows him to translate complex financial matters into clear and concise insights for his readers.
