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The holiday season is twinkling into full swing, and there’s nothing quite like a festive cocktail to set the mood and add a splash of cheer. From peppermint martinis that spark memories of snowy evenings to hot toddies that warm you from the inside out, every state in the U.S. has its favorite way to toast to the season.
In this tour of the nation’s holiday preferences, we’ve used Google Trends to analyze the search volume of 50 seasonal libations, uncovering each state’s beloved holiday cocktail and the nationwide favorites.
Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or simply seeking inspiration for your holiday gatherings, read on to journey through the most popular holiday cocktails from coast to coast.
Every State’s Favorite Holiday Cocktail
Image Credit: Upgraded Points
As the holidays roll in, every state in the U.S. brings its own flavor to the table. Whether it’s a twist on a classic or a traditional favorite, each drink reflects the distinctive charm and character of its state. Let’s take a look at some of the unique drinks Americans are buzzing about this holiday season:
In the Land of 10,000 Lakes, Minnesotans cozy up during the festive season with a twist on a classic — the maple old-fashioned. This hearty cocktail blends the earthy richness of maple syrup with the robustness of whiskey, creating a warming drink perfect for those chilly Minnesota nights.
Down in the vibrant heart of the South, Louisiana adds a touch of Southern charm to the holidays with its beloved milk punch. This creamy, dreamy concoction is a smooth blend of milk, sugar, and a kick of bourbon or brandy, often graced with a sprinkle of nutmeg.
In Washington, D.C., where the word “party” often has a dual meaning, the Negroni reigns supreme during the holiday season. This sophisticated cocktail’s combination of gin, vermouth, and Campari offers a balance of bitter and sweet, mirroring the city’s blend of historical gravitas and contemporary flair.
Amidst the snow-covered plains and rugged landscapes, South Dakotans find their holiday cheer in a glass of White Russian. This smooth, creamy mix of vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream is as comforting as a warm blanket on a cold night. It’s a simple yet delightful cocktail that captures the straightforward and hearty spirit of South Dakota, offering a sweet respite from the winter chill.
Spirit of the Season: America’s Most Popular Holiday Cocktails
Image Credit: Upgraded Points
From traditional delights to innovative twists, certain cocktails emerge as nationwide favorites, capturing the essence of festive joy in every sip. Here’s a look at the most popular holiday cocktails across the U.S., each winning the hearts of multiple states.
Leading the pack as the most popular holiday drink in 11 states, Christmas punch shines as a festive favorite. This vibrant, fruity concoction, often brimming with seasonal spices and a splash of something spirited, perfectly encapsulates the joyous holiday spirit in a glass.
Classic eggnog comes in at a close second and is a fan favorite of Americans in 6 states. This creamy, spiced, and often spiked traditional beverage is a quintessential holiday treat cherished for its comforting warmth and rich history.
Cranberry mimosa, hot buttered rum, and Irish coffee win the hearts of 4 states each. The cranberry mimosa brings a zesty twist to the traditional brunch favorite, while hot buttered rum offers a sweet, buttery warmth, and Irish coffee combines the kick of coffee with the smoothness of Irish whiskey, ideal for those chilly holiday mornings.
Not far behind, winning over 3 states each, are the tropical coquito, with its creamy coconut flavor, and the tangy cranberry orange whiskey sour, adding a citrusy punch to the whiskey’s warmth.
Rounding off the list, the Christmas margarita, a festive spin on the classic margarita, emerges as the holiday choice for 2 states, blending the traditional margarita zest with a splash of seasonal cheer.
Methodology
To identify the most popular holiday cocktails in the U.S., we began by curating a list of 50 top holiday cocktails. This selection was derived from various sources, including Liquor.com, Good Housekeeping, and Town & Country, to ensure a comprehensive mix. We then looked to Google Trends, collecting search data across all 50 cocktails over the past year from November 2022 to November 2023 to find the most searched holiday cocktail in each state and nationwide.
Final Thoughts
The spirit of the holiday season is as diverse and flavorful as the Christmas cocktails we cherish. These drinks are more than just recipes – they are a celebration of our unique regional tastes and shared holiday joys.
Whether you’re clinking glasses in Minnesota or raising a toast in Louisiana, remember that every sip is a testament to the season’s magic and merriment. Cheers to discovering new favorites and savoring the timeless classics this holiday season!
Founder and CEO of Upgraded Points, Alex is a leader in the industry and has earned and redeemed millions of points and miles. He frequently discusses the award travel industry with CNBC, Fox Business, The New York Times, and more.
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