Top 10 Fall Island-Inspired Cocktails

Thanksgiving in Orlando? Oh, it’s not just turkey and mashed potatoes. Picture this – you, surrounded by palm trees swaying in the breeze, and a tropical cocktail in hand as you toast to another unforgettable holiday. Whether it’s a laid-back Friendsgiving or a full-on family feast, these island-inspired drinks will transport your tastebuds straight to paradise, while keeping the fall spirit alive. Already dreaming of that island escape? Let Margaritaville Resort Orlando be your oasis, and let’s dive into some cocktails that scream “fall” but sip like summer.

1. Cranberry Champagne Cocktail

Toast to your loved ones for a Happy Thanksgiving with a drink that brings delicious fruity flavor to your meal. Sweet cranberry juice meets crisp champagne in this fruity delight, and the frozen cranberries? They’re not just for garnish – they’re your built-in ice cubes to keep things chill as you soak in the warm Florida sun. Every sip of this feels like a toast to your tranquility.

Cranberry Champagne cocktails

2. Spiked Apple Cider Cocktail

Take the cozy vibes of apple cider and give it an exotic twist with dark rum and a kick of cinnamon schnapps. It’s like sipping fall in a lush hideaway. Granny smith apple juices add that perfect tart balance, while a squeeze of lemon keeps things fresh. Pour yourself a glass, kick back, and feel the breeze – this one’s all about laid-back luxury.

Spiced apple cider cocktail

3. Ginger Cranberry Cocktail

You know what pairs well with a sunny holiday in Orlando? A zesty ginger cranberry cocktail. Imagine freshly shaved ginger swirling with cranberry juice, a splash of vodka or gin, and club soda to keep things light. It’s the kind of drink that wakes up your senses and has you ready for another round of that sandy Thanksgiving fun.

Ginger and cranberry Moscow Mules

4. Orange Cranberry Mimosa

Brunch lovers, this one’s for you. The bright tang of cranberries and a burst of orange juice come together for a exotic spin on the Thanksgiving classic. And with chilled champagne in hand, you’re perfectly set to tackle that hot turkey – just don’t forget to toss in a sprig of mint to make it feel like an coastal breeze is brushing by.

Cranberry mimosas garnished with orange peels

5. Warm Bourbon Cider

Now, let’s not forget our bourbon lovers. This warm cider is the perfect way to ease into the holiday, oasis-style. Apple cider, bourbon, and cinnamon sticks simmering on the stove – smells like fall, but sip it on the porch and you’ll feel like you’re in a serene cabin. It’s cozy meets cool, the ultimate combo for your Thanksgiving feast.

Hot mulled cider with a cinnamon stick

6. Italian Espresso Martini

Need a little boost? This espresso martini is the perfect pick-me-up, but it’s not here to knock you out – it’s all about keeping things smooth. With a shot of espresso, coffee liqueur, and a hint of Amaro, you’ll feel like you’re lounging at a chic outdoor café, rather than tackling that mountain of sweet potatoes. Slip slowly and savor the moment.

7. Maple Old Fashioned

For those who like their drinks with a bit of swagger, the Maple Old Fashioned is where it’s at. The warmth of rye whiskey, the sweetness of maple syrup, and a dash of bitters come together for a drink that feels like the spirit of fall wrapped in a soothing breeze. Adding an orange peel brings extra flavor to the cocktail, and large ice cubes keep you cool after a hot plate.

Autumn maple syrup cocktail

8. Thanksgiving Sangria

Sangria’s not just for summer. This Thanksgiving Sangria blends ginger beer, apple cider, brandy, and pumpkin butter for a drink that’s as festive as it is refreshing. The fall spices mingle perfectly with the elegant sweetness of citrus and maple syrup, and those cinnamon sticks? They’re the dessert-like finish to your Thanksgiving in nirvana.

Apple cider sangria cocktail garnished with cinnamon stick

9. Cranberry Rum Punch

Rum punch but make it Thanksgiving. Cranberry juice and rum come together in a drink that’s equal parts fruity and refreshing. Toss in a few ice cubes to keep things breezy, and you’ve got yourself the perfect companion to that Thanksgiving ham – or a Florida sunset stroll.

Cranberry holiday punch bowl and glasses

10. Applejack Sour

Sweet meets sour in this cocktail that’ll have you dreaming of your next island-inspired getaway. Applejack, lemon, and orange juice bring the sweetness, while a touch of maple syrup and bitters gives it that fall kick. Toss in some ice, take a sip, and let the majestic feeling take over.

11. By The Campfire

You can’t go wrong with a traditional margarita, and Margaritaville Resort Orlando’s By The Campfire is here for Thanksgiving refreshment. Bombay gin, domain caton, and angostura bitters come together with cranberry juice, lemon juice, and simple syrup for a sweet boost to the occasion. The orange bitters and garnish complete the cocktail with extra flavor to enjoy while gazing at the stars on a warm Florida night.

Who says Thanksgiving can’t have a tropical twist? With cranberry, apple cider, and maple syrup leading the way, these cocktails are the perfect way to add a little elegant flavor to your fall feast. So, whether you’re sipping sangria under the sun or toasting with a champagne cocktail, one thing’s for sure – you’ll be celebrating Thanksgiving, oasis-style.

Book your retreat at Margaritaville Resort Orlando today, and let your holiday getaway be as refreshing as the cocktails you’ll be sipping!