Christmas Kickoff: Start The Season Right

You got through Thanksgiving and somehow survived Black Friday. Cyber Monday is finished and we know you are totally done your Christmas shopping — wink, wink. And now, it is officially the first weekend of holiday celebrations! And what better way to make the season merry and bright than with a few tasty drinks?

Click here to see the Christmas Kickoff: Start the Season Right (Slideshow)

But knowing what to serve can be tough. After all, a holiday party should be festive in every aspect — why should the drinks be any different? There are so many ways to make cocktails a part of your party theme, but the first step is deciding what that theme is. To help throw the best party possible, not only are we giving you 12 amazing holiday recipes, but we are also sharing a few party theme ideas that would be great fits for these delicious cocktails.

Classic Christmas
By classic, we mean really classic — like Charles Dickens classic. You definitely want to throw this type of party for the opportunity to explore a historic menu. This is the perfect party to host for a more formal feel and should use deeper colors with a more Baroque style to keep it funky but absolutely gorgeous. For this party, you want to serve drinks like mulled wines and hot ciders to keep that luxurious feeling strong.

Santa's Workshop
For this type of party, you want it to be super fun and super informal. Think bright reds and greens for your décor and a much looser menu. You can encourage guests to arrive in their ugly Christmas sweaters or have silly party props like elf ears and Santa hats around. Drinks for this party should be equally loud, and with drinks like the Midori Holly-Daze and Elf Kiss, you can totally put the party in your glass!

Winter Wonderland
For a magnificent winter wonderland you have to throw an all-white bash. Guests should arrive in their best white outfits, and you should deck your halls with crisp white linens, shimmery silvers, and radiant golds. And for drinks? Try sticking to a classic color-appropriate eggnog or Sparkling Bee's Knees to fit the theme.

Make sure that you go through our slideshow for delicious, inspiring drinks for whatever party you end up hosting!

For more holiday cheer, check out The Daily Meal's Ultimate Guide to Christmas!