Thanksgiving Eve
“Drinksgiving” and “Blackout Wednesday” both refer to the day before Thanksgiving, traditionally known for heavy drinking as people return home for the holiday and gather with friends. It is often marked by drinking in bars or hosting parties where excessive alcohol consumption is common, leading to the term “blackout.” This day gained popularity as many college students return home for the long Thanksgiving weekend, creating a perfect opportunity for reunions and pre-holiday parties. It has become one of the biggest drinking nights of the year, rivaling New Year’s Eve and St. Patrick’s Day.
Drinksgiving is an unofficial holiday that celebrates the act of gathering with friends and family over drinks during the Thanksgiving season. It’s a playful twist on the traditional Thanksgiving celebration, emphasizing socializing, sharing drinks, and enjoying the festive spirit. Here’s a deeper dive into Drinksgiving, its significance, how to celebrate it, and ideas for creating memorable moments.
What is Drinksgiving?
Date: Drinksgiving takes place on Thanksgiving Day and has connections to Blackout Wednesday, the night before Thanksgiving, which is known for heavy drinking as people reconnect with old friends.
Focus: The emphasis is on enjoying alcoholic beverages, whether cocktails, wine, beer, or craft drinks, while also appreciating the company of loved ones.
Crossover: It can include Friendsgiving celebrations, where friends gather for a Thanksgiving-type meal without family, often with more emphasis on cocktails and festive drinks.
Significance of Drinksgiving
Social Connection: It provides an opportunity for people to bond over drinks, both with family and friends. The act of sharing drinks can create camaraderie and enhance the festive atmosphere.
Festive Spirit: The holiday season is often about joy and relaxation, and Drinksgiving caters to these sentiments, allowing for creativity in mixing drinks and celebrating together.
Cultural Trends: As the drinking culture evolves, Drinksgiving reflects modern celebrations that prioritize fun and sociability during holiday gatherings.
How to Celebrate Drinksgiving
Here are some creative ideas for celebrating Drinksgiving:
Signature Cocktails: Create a menu of festive cocktails. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Thanksgiving Sangria: A mix of red or white wine with seasonal fruits, apple cider, and spices.
Maple Bourbon Smash: Bourbon mixed with fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, and mint.
Autumn Mule: A twist on the Moscow Mule, using pumpkin spice or apple cider.
Wine and Pairing: Offer a selection of wines that pair well with traditional Thanksgiving dishes. Consider hosting a wine tasting where guests can sample various options.
Craft Beer Tasting: Highlight local breweries by sampling fall-themed craft beers. You can set up a flight of pumpkin ales, harvest IPAs, or spiced stouts.
Mocktails for Non-Drinkers: Ensure that everyone feels included by providing delicious non-alcoholic options:
Cranberry Lemonade: Refreshing with a zest of lemon and a splash of cranberry juice.
Fall Spice Mocktail: Ginger ale with apple cider and a cinnamon stick.
DIY Cocktail Bar: Set up a cocktail-making station with ingredients, garnishes, and recipe cards. Encourage creativity among guests to make their own drinks.
Food and Drink Pairing: Encourage guests to bring their favorite dish and drink pairing. You can also create a potluck-style meal where everyone contributes.
Games and Activities: Incorporate fun games like drinking bingo, trivia related to Thanksgiving or local brews, or even a cocktail-making contest.
Responsible Drinking: Create a plan for safe drinking, such as providing transportation options or encouraging ridesharing. Consider having a designated driver or arrange for guests to stay overnight.
Decorations: Set up a festive atmosphere with autumn-themed decorations like pumpkins, fall leaves, and string lights to create a cozy and inviting environment.
Photo Booth: Set up a themed photo booth where guests can take fun pictures with props related to both Thanksgiving and drinks to capture memories.
