Thanksgiving is the season of gratitude, comfort, and community—and what better way to toast the holiday than with creative, flavorful beverages that everyone can enjoy? Vegan Thanksgiving drinks and mocktails can add the perfect festive touch to your feast, whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends.
These drinks are vibrant, seasonal, and free of animal products—meaning no honey, cream, or gelatin-based garnishes. Instead, they’re crafted with fresh ingredients, plant-based milks, and natural sweeteners that showcase the bounty of fall.
This post explores a wide range of vegan drink ideas: from sparkling mocktails and creamy hot beverages to fruit-based punches and elegant non-alcoholic cocktails. You’ll also find preparation tips, presentation inspiration, and pairing suggestions to make your Thanksgiving beverages stand out as much as your food.
Why Vegan Drinks Belong at Your Thanksgiving Table
A vegan drink menu isn’t just about skipping alcohol—it’s about embracing inclusivity and creativity. With guests who may be avoiding alcohol, animal products, or refined ingredients, these drinks ensure that everyone feels welcome at your table.
Here’s what makes vegan mocktails so special:
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Inclusive for all ages: Kids, designated drivers, and anyone avoiding alcohol can join in the fun.
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Cruelty-free ingredients: No dairy creamers, honey, or egg whites—just pure plant goodness.
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Naturally beautiful: Seasonal fruits and herbs provide stunning colors and aromas.
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Healthier alternatives: Lower in sugar and calories, yet full of festive flavor.
When paired with your vegan appetizers, mains, and desserts, these beverages create a cohesive and elegant dining experience that celebrates the full harvest season.
1. Sparkling Mocktails for a Festive Start
Sparkling drinks add instant cheer to any celebration. Whether you’re welcoming guests or toasting gratitude around the table, these vegan mocktails deliver flavor and fizz without the spirits.
Cranberry Ginger Sparkler
A tangy, bubbly mocktail that’s as beautiful as it is refreshing.
Ingredients:
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Unsweetened cranberry juice
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Sparkling water or club soda
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Fresh lime juice
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Ginger syrup or grated ginger
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Cranberries and rosemary sprigs for garnish
Directions:
Mix cranberry juice, lime juice, and ginger syrup in a pitcher. Fill glasses halfway, top with sparkling water, and garnish with a rosemary sprig and a few cranberries.
Tip: Freeze cranberries in ice cubes for a stunning touch that keeps drinks cold without dilution.
Apple Cider Fizz
This drink captures the essence of fall in every bubbly sip.
Ingredients:
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Fresh apple cider
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Sparkling mineral water
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Cinnamon sticks
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Lemon juice
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Thin apple slices for garnish
Directions:
Combine cider and lemon juice, then top with sparkling water. Stir gently and serve over ice with a cinnamon stick and apple slice.
Perfect Pairing: Enjoy alongside vegan cheese platters or roasted nut appetizers.
Pomegranate Orange Spritz
Bright, citrusy, and bursting with antioxidants.
Ingredients:
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Fresh orange juice
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Pomegranate juice
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Sparkling water
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Orange slices and mint leaves
Directions:
Mix equal parts orange and pomegranate juice. Add ice, top with sparkling water, and garnish with mint and orange rounds.
This drink not only looks stunning but also complements rich dishes like vegan roasts or lentil loaves with its refreshing tang.
2. Cozy Warm Vegan Drinks for Chilly Evenings
Thanksgiving evenings call for drinks that warm the body and soul. These vegan-friendly beverages are comfort in a mug, featuring classic autumn ingredients like cinnamon, nutmeg, and maple.
Vegan Pumpkin Spice Latte
Skip the coffee shop and make your own dairy-free pumpkin spice latte at home.
Ingredients:
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Oat milk or almond milk
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Pumpkin purée
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Maple syrup
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Espresso or strong brewed coffee
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Pumpkin pie spice and vanilla extract
Directions:
Whisk oat milk, pumpkin purée, maple syrup, and spices in a saucepan until hot and frothy. Pour over espresso, top with coconut whipped cream, and sprinkle a little cinnamon on top.
Why it works: It’s indulgent yet balanced—ideal for brunch or dessert.
Spiced Apple Cider
A classic Thanksgiving staple that never disappoints.
Ingredients:
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Apple cider
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Cinnamon sticks
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Cloves
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Orange slices
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Star anise
Directions:
Simmer ingredients for 20–30 minutes, then strain and serve warm. Add a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.
The aroma fills your kitchen with instant holiday warmth.
Vegan Hot Chocolate with a Twist
Rich, silky, and entirely dairy-free.
Ingredients:
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Oat milk or coconut milk
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Cocoa powder
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Dark vegan chocolate chips
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Maple syrup or agave nectar
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A pinch of sea salt
Directions:
Melt chocolate in warmed plant milk, stir in cocoa powder and maple syrup, and whisk until smooth.
Top with coconut whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or crushed peppermint for a festive touch.
Pairing Tip: Serve with vegan cookies, pumpkin muffins, or scones.
3. Refreshing Cold Vegan Drinks with Seasonal Flair
If you live somewhere warmer—or want something light and crisp between courses—these cold beverages are a hit.
Citrus Thyme Iced Tea
Herbal and aromatic, this mocktail bridges the gap between sweet and savory.
Ingredients:
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Brewed black tea (cooled)
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Fresh lemon and orange juice
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Thyme sprigs
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Agave syrup
Directions:
Mix tea, citrus juices, and agave to taste. Add ice and garnish with fresh thyme.
It’s refreshing enough to serve throughout dinner and pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables and grains.
Maple Pear Cooler
Sweet pears meet earthy maple in this unexpected but delightful drink.
Ingredients:
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Pear nectar
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Club soda
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Maple syrup
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Lemon juice
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Sliced pear for garnish
Directions:
Combine pear nectar, maple syrup, and lemon juice in a shaker. Pour over ice, top with soda, and stir lightly.
Flavor Note: The maple enhances fall’s natural sweetness while keeping the drink light.
Cranberry Basil Lemonade
A unique twist on classic lemonade—festive and slightly tart.
Ingredients:
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Cranberry juice
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Fresh lemon juice
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Basil leaves
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Agave or simple syrup
Directions:
Muddle basil leaves, then combine all ingredients with ice and stir. The basil adds sophistication and depth to the fruity mix.
4. Showstopping Mocktail Bar Ideas for Thanksgiving Gatherings
Setting up a DIY vegan mocktail bar is a fun way to encourage guests to get creative while keeping things easy for you as the host.
Here’s how to design a stunning mocktail setup:
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Choose a Signature Theme:
Think “Autumn Harvest” (apples, pears, and cinnamon) or “Cranberry Citrus Celebration.” -
Provide a Base Variety:
Offer still and sparkling options—apple cider, pomegranate juice, club soda, and coconut water. -
Add Mix-Ins:
Lemon and lime wedges, mint, rosemary sprigs, orange slices, and fresh berries add visual appeal and freshness. -
Offer Natural Sweeteners:
Include maple syrup, agave nectar, and date syrup for adjustable sweetness. -
Prepare Garnishes:
Candied ginger, cinnamon sticks, vegan marshmallows, and edible flowers make every drink photo-worthy. -
Set the Mood:
Use glass carafes, reusable straws, and eco-friendly cups. Add fairy lights or pumpkins for a festive fall look.
This interactive setup encourages mingling and creativity—and ensures guests of all ages feel included.
5. Dessert-Inspired Vegan Mocktails
End the evening with dessert-style mocktails that double as sweet treats.
Salted Caramel Apple Mocktail
A dessert in a glass—creamy, salty-sweet, and completely vegan.
Ingredients:
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Unsweetened apple cider
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Coconut milk
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Maple syrup
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Pinch of sea salt
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Caramel drizzle made from coconut sugar
Directions:
Blend ingredients until smooth and heat gently. Serve warm with caramel around the rim of the glass.
Chocolate Espresso Martini Mocktail
A sophisticated, non-alcoholic twist on a classic cocktail.
Ingredients:
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Cold brew coffee
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Cocoa powder
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Oat milk
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Vanilla extract
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Ice cubes
Directions:
Shake all ingredients with ice until frothy. Strain into a martini glass and garnish with shaved vegan chocolate.
Pumpkin Pie Smoothie
Perfect for after-dinner sipping, this thick and creamy drink captures Thanksgiving dessert in liquid form.
Ingredients:
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Pumpkin purée
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Frozen banana
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Oat milk
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Maple syrup
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Cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger
Directions:
Blend until smooth and top with coconut whipped cream.
Pro Tip: Serve in small glass jars for a rustic presentation.
6. Pairing Vegan Mocktails with Thanksgiving Courses
The right drink enhances the flavors of your meal. Here’s a simple pairing guide:
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Starters: Citrus Thyme Iced Tea or Pomegranate Orange Spritz
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Main Course: Apple Cider Fizz or Cranberry Ginger Sparkler
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Side Dishes: Maple Pear Cooler or Spiced Apple Cider
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Dessert: Vegan Hot Chocolate or Pumpkin Pie Smoothie
These combinations help balance richness, refresh the palate, and create a harmonious dining experience from start to finish.
7. Hosting Tips for a Perfect Vegan Drink Experience
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Prep ahead: Many mocktails can be made in batches. Mix bases early and add sparkling water before serving.
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Use reusable materials: Choose eco-friendly cups, straws, and napkins to align with vegan sustainability values.
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Serve at the right temperature: Keep sparkling drinks cold and warm beverages at a gentle simmer for easy refills.
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Label ingredients: Guests will appreciate knowing what’s in each drink, especially for allergies.
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Encourage creativity: Offer garnish options and fun names for each mocktail (like “Cider Moonlight” or “Maple Harvest Fizz”).
8. The Joy of a Vegan Toast
A well-crafted vegan Thanksgiving mocktail turns every clink of glasses into a symbol of connection and compassion. By choosing plant-based ingredients and alcohol-free options, you create an atmosphere that celebrates abundance without excess—and hospitality without exclusion.
So this Thanksgiving, skip the bar cart and raise a glass filled with gratitude, warmth, and creativity.
For those who love expressing their plant-based lifestyle beyond the table, check out The Dharma Store—they offer vegan-themed t-shirts made from organic cotton, perfect for showing your compassion with style.
Final Thoughts
Vegan Thanksgiving drinks and mocktails bring together the best of the season—rich spices, bright fruits, and cozy comfort—all without the alcohol or animal products. Whether it’s a cranberry fizz to start dinner or a steaming cup of pumpkin spice latte by the fire, every sip can be both festive and ethical.
So this year, craft a drink menu that’s every bit as warm-hearted as your meal. Cheers to kindness, creativity, and gratitude—one glass at a time.