20 Drinks, Cocktails, and Punches for New Year’s Eve

Sheela Prakash
Sheela PrakashSenior Contributing Food Editor
Sheela is the Senior Contributing Food Editor at Kitchn and the author of Mediterranean Every Day: Simple, Inspired Recipes for Feel-Good Food. She received her master's degree from the University of Gastronomic Sciences in Italy and is also a Registered Dietitian.
updated May 29, 2019
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For something as festive as New Year’s Eve, serving a drink that fits the mood is extra important. And while you can never go wrong with sparkling wine, sometimes you want just a little bit more, right? That’s where these cocktails, drinks, and big-batch punches come in. They run the gamut from classic to quirky and can serve just a few or a whole crowd, depending on what you have in store for the holiday.

(Image credit: Lauren Volo)

Classic Cocktails

Fancy up your New Year’s Eve festivities by serving a great cocktail. Martinis and whiskey sours are timeless, while super-sippable Champagne cocktails are extra fitting for the occasion.

Warm Drinks

Greet your guests with something warm when then come in from the cold and they’re sure to appreciate it. These steamy spiked drinks are equal parts festive and cozy.

(Image credit: Kristin Teig)

Big-Batch Pitchers and Punches

If you’re expecting a large crowd, it’s wise to turn to a pitcher or punch so you don’t have to spend the whole night shaking drinks. These recipes feature all the best flavors of the season like cranberry, citrus, and warm spices.

(Image credit: The Kitchn)