50 New Year’s Eve Drinks to Toast to the New Year

Whether you reach for bubbly, something shaken, or a zero-proof refresher, raising a glass at midnight feels even better when the drink is thoughtfully chosen. The ideas below combine reliable classics with fresh twists and a handful of festive mocktails so every guest can join the celebration. Stock a few versatile spirits, plenty of ice, and good sparkling water, then mix your favorites as the clock counts down.

1. Classic Champagne Cocktail

Drop a sugar cube soaked in Angostura bitters into a chilled glass, then top with brut Champagne and a twist of orange peel. The cube sends a steady stream of bubbles upward while adding a whisper of sweetness. It’s simple, refined, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for the first toast of the night.

2. French 75

Gin, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of simple syrup are shaken over ice, strained, and finished with Champagne. The result is light yet bracing, balancing botanical notes with citrus snap. Serve it in a flute or coupe for a timeless nod to 1920s glamour.

3. Kir Royale

Blackcurrant liqueur (crème de cassis) adds jewel-tone color and berry flavor to chilled Champagne. Gently pour the wine over the liqueur so the hues mingle without excessive foam. The drink looks luxurious yet requires only two ingredients, perfect for hosts short on prep time.

4. Aperol Spritz

Combine three parts Prosecco, two parts Aperol, and one part soda water over ice, stirring once to blend. A slice of orange brightens the bittersweet profile. Its low alcohol content lets guests sip all evening without fading before midnight.

5. Elderflower Sparkler

St-Germain liqueur lends floral sweetness to dry Prosecco and a splash of club soda. The flavor is delicate yet memorable, ideal for those who prefer subtle aromatics. Chill everything in advance so the drink stays crisp without extra ice.

6. Pomegranate Prosecco Punch

Blend chilled Prosecco with pomegranate juice, orange liqueur, and a hint of lime. Fresh fruit pieces keep the punch colorful and festive. Serve in coupes or small tumblers so guests can refill often and enjoy the lively hue.

7. Raspberry Bellini

Swap peach for raspberry to give this Venetian classic a winter spin. Press thawed frozen raspberries through a fine sieve, spoon the purée into flutes, then top with dry sparkling wine. The berry aroma pairs nicely with both sweet and savory canapés.

8. Midnight Margarita

Activated charcoal or black currant purée turns the usual margarita inky and dramatic. Combine tequila, citrus, and orange liqueur, shake hard with ice, and strain over fresh cubes. The color alone sparks conversation as the countdown approaches.

9. Blackberry Bourbon Smash

Bourbon mingles with muddled berries, mint leaves, and a squeeze of lemon for a drink that’s equal parts fruity and smoky. Crushed ice keeps every sip refreshing. Lightly slap extra mint on top for a fragrant finish.

10. Espresso Martini

Vodka, fresh espresso, and coffee liqueur are shaken until velvety, delivering both caffeine and a pleasant sweetness. The creamy head forms naturally when the coffee meets ice. It’s the ideal pick-me-up for guests hitting that late-night lull.

11. Sidecar

Cognac, orange liqueur, and lemon juice form a balanced trio dating back to the Jazz Age. A light sugar rim adds sparkle and tempers the tartness. Serve it straight up so its warming character shines.

12. Gin Basil Smash

Muddle basil leaves with lemon juice and simple syrup, then shake with a botanical gin. Fine-strain to remove herb bits for a smooth texture. The drink smells like a summer garden yet remains perfect year-round thanks to its bright flavor.

13. Blood Orange Negroni

Swap standard orange for blood orange juice to deepen color and add sweetness. Mix equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, stir with ice, and garnish. The hint of berry from the citrus makes it a seasonal twist on a beloved aperitif.

14. Cranberry Moscow Mule

Vodka, lime, and ginger beer get a tart upgrade with cranberry juice. Serve in chilled copper mugs to keep the drink extra cold. A sprig of rosemary turns it into instant holiday décor.

15. Pineapple Mojito

Crushed pineapple and fresh mint are muddled with lime and sugar, then topped with white rum and soda water. Tropical flavors contrast nicely with winter weather. Use plenty of ice so the drink remains light and bubbly.

16. Maple Old Fashioned

Pure maple syrup replaces simple syrup, adding depth and a whisper of smoke. Stir bourbon, maple, and bitters over ice until chilled, then garnish with an orange peel. It’s a soothing sipper for guests who favor spirit-forward cocktails.

17. Spiced Rum Punch

Blend dark rum with pineapple juice, orange juice, and a dash of allspice dram. Citrus wheels and warming spices perfume each glass. Batch it ahead of time so flavors meld while you mingle.

18. Pear & Thyme Fizz

Pear nectar, gin, and lemon meet a thyme-infused simple syrup for a nuanced palate. Top with sparkling water to lighten the profile. The herbaceous note keeps sweetness in check.

19. Lavender 75

Add a few drops of lavender syrup to the standard French 75 template. The floral accent feels special without overpowering the gin and bubbles. It’s a genteel choice for sophisticated celebrations.

20. Fireside Manhattan

Swap rye for a high-proof bourbon and add a bar spoon of cherry liqueur for richness. Stir with sweet vermouth and bitters, strain into a chilled coupe, and flame an orange peel over the top. The subtle smokiness echoes a winter hearth.

21. Grapefruit Paloma

Combine grapefruit juice, tequila, lime, and a splash of agave, then top with fizzy mineral water. A salted rim highlights the citrus zing. It’s refreshing without leaning too sweet.

22. Coconut Snowstorm

White rum, cream of coconut, and crushed ice are blitzed until velvety. A dash of vanilla and fresh nutmeg suggests holiday cookies. Serve with a straw so guests can stir as it slowly melts.

23. Rosemary Greyhound

Infuse vodka with a short rosemary sprig, then shake with fresh grapefruit and a little simple syrup. The herb lifts the citrus and provides a fragrant garnish. It’s crisp, aromatic, and easy to batch.

24. Saffron Gin & Tonic

Add a tiny pinch of saffron threads to a gin and tonic, allowing them to bloom into a warm sunset hue. A squeeze of orange complements the spice. This small tweak turns a familiar drink into a celebration-ready pour.

25. Fig & Honey Sour

Shake bourbon with fig jam, honey syrup, lemon, and egg white for a silky texture. The jam provides fruit while honey rounds the edges. A light dusting of cinnamon adds gentle warmth.

26. Cucumber Elderflower Cooler (Zero-Proof)

Combine elderflower cordial, fresh lime, and muddled cucumber, then top with sparkling water. It’s crisp, lightly floral, and keeps designated drivers feeling included. Add a basil leaf for extra greenery.

27. Ginger Lime Sparkler (Zero-Proof)

Fresh lime juice and homemade ginger syrup team up with chilled seltzer for bite and brightness. The drink dances on the palate without alcohol. It’s kid-friendly yet sophisticated enough for adults.

28. Non-Alcoholic Sangria

Unsweetened grape juice, pomegranate juice, and lightly sparkling water form the base, while chopped fruit infuses overnight. A cinnamon stick adds holiday flair. Serve over ice so the flavors stay lively.

29. Sparkling Apple Cider Mojito (Zero-Proof)

Swap rum for crisp apple cider and finish with club soda for bubbles. Mint and lime keep the profile true to the original. It’s autumnal yet perfectly suited for a winter party.

30. Hibiscus Iced Tea Fizz (Zero-Proof)

Steep dried hibiscus flowers, chill, sweeten lightly, and top with sparkling water. The tart, berry-like flavor feels festive and refreshing. A squeeze of orange juice softens the tang.

31. Amaretto Sour

Use fresh lemon juice and a dash of bourbon to tame the sweetness of almond liqueur. Shake with egg white for that signature silky top. A few dashes of aromatic bitters finish the job.

32. Dark ’n’ Stormy

Layer dark rum over spicy ginger beer and fresh lime for dramatic clouds of color. Stir right before drinking so the flavors integrate. Its bold bite is perfect for winter nights.

33. Champagne Julep

Replace bourbon with bubbly while keeping mint and simple syrup in place. The drink combines julep aromatics with Champagne elegance. Serve with a metal straw to keep the mix frosty.

34. Limoncello Spritz

Mix equal parts limoncello and Prosecco, then add a splash of soda water. The liqueur’s sweet-tart quality makes the drink bright and aromatic. It’s a breeze to assemble for a large crowd.

35. Passionfruit Caipirinha

Muddle lime wedges and sugar, add fresh passionfruit pulp, then top with cachaça. The tropical aroma and gentle tang revive the classic Brazilian cocktail. It’s vibrant enough to cut through rich hors d’oeuvres.

36. Blueberry Mint Collins

Muddle blueberries and mint, shake with gin and lemon, then strain over ice and top with soda water. The color alone invites a toast. Frozen berries work just as well and double as ice cubes.

37. Candy Cane White Russian

Add a dash of peppermint extract to the cream before gently floating it over the vodka and coffee liqueur base. Crushed candy canes on the rim sparkle like confetti. It’s dessert and cocktail in one glass.

38. Chocolate Chili Martini

Blend chocolate liqueur, vodka, and a pinch of cayenne, shake until chilled, and strain. The spice creeps in after the cocoa sweetness fades. It’s a playful choice for chocoholics seeking a kick.

39. Rye & Cherry Smash

Muddle fresh or frozen cherries with a touch of sugar, add rye and lemon, then top with ice. The whiskey’s spice balances the fruit’s richness. A quick shake wakes up the flavors.

40. Golden Turmeric Toddy

Bourbon, honey, lemon, and turmeric powder combine with hot water for a sunny-colored winter warmer. Black pepper enhances turmeric’s earthy notes. Serve when guests return from watching fireworks outdoors.

41. Salty Dog

Vodka or gin meets fresh grapefruit juice inside a glass rimmed with coarse salt. The contrast sharpens the citrus and keeps each sip lively. It’s quick to build and low on extra ingredients.

42. White Port & Tonic

Lightly sweet white port pairs beautifully with crisp tonic water and a squeeze of lemon. The drink is lower in alcohol than many cocktails, ideal for earlier in the evening. Use plenty of ice so the flavors stay refreshing.

43. Clover Club

Shake gin, raspberry syrup, lemon, and egg white to create a silky, frothy drink with balanced tartness. The color feels party-ready without added food dye. Fine-strain for a smooth, velvety texture.

44. Rum Espresso Flip

Dark rum, freshly pulled espresso, simple syrup, and a whole egg are shaken until lush. The combination mimics a coffee dessert yet remains cocktail-forward. Serve in a chilled coupe to keep the foam stable.

45. Watermelon Rosemary Slush

Blend frozen watermelon cubes with vodka, lime, and a rosemary-infused syrup. The herb adds structure to the fruit’s sweetness. It’s an unexpected treat in mid-winter and a reminder of warmer days ahead.

46. Cardamom Gin Flip

Gin, simple syrup, a whole egg, and cardamom bitters are shaken for a custard-like texture. The spice brings gentle warmth without overwhelming the botanicals. Serve very cold so the drink feels rich yet refreshing.

47. Honeyed Champagne Punch

A base of chilled green tea, honey syrup, and lemon is topped with brut Champagne just before guests arrive. Edible flowers or citrus wheels add visual flair. The tea lightens the sweetness so the flavors stay balanced.

48. Strawberry Rhubarb Fizz

Make a quick rhubarb syrup, mix with vodka and lemon, then top with sparkling water. Muddled strawberries reinforce the fruit profile and give the drink its rosy color. It’s a lively option outside of rhubarb season thanks to frozen fruit.

49. Lychee Sparkling Sake

Combine chilled sparkling sake with a splash of lychee juice and a single peeled fruit. The floral aroma pairs beautifully with light bites like sushi or dumplings. Keep the components icy cold for maximum refreshment.

50. Midnight Kiss

Vodka and blue curaçao create a striking hue, while pineapple juice lends tropical sweetness. Add a quick pour of Champagne for bubbles that dance against the blue backdrop. Hand each guest a glass a few minutes before twelve for a picture-perfect countdown moment.