As Thanksgiving approaches, so does a lesser-known but much-anticipated celebration: Drinksgiving! Taking place on November 27th this year, Drinksgiving (or “Blackout Wednesday” in some circles) has become a cherished, unofficial holiday where friends and family gather for a night of drinks and catching up before the Thanksgiving festivities begin. It’s a time for laughter, storytelling, and revisiting memories with loved ones returning home for the holiday.
The Origins of Drinksgiving
Drinksgiving is a relatively recent tradition that has grown in popularity over the past few decades. Originally, the night before Thanksgiving became a social event as college students returned home and reconnected with friends. Bars quickly capitalized on the trend, offering special promotions that turned Thanksgiving Eve into one of the busiest bar nights of the year. In fact, in some cities, Drinksgiving rivals St. Patrick’s Day and New Year’s Eve in popularity.
While Thanksgiving dates back to 1621, Drinksgiving developed organically as people naturally gravitated to their hometown bars the night before the big family holiday. This informal holiday, coined “Drinksgiving” around 2007, has now become an American tradition—a time to reconnect, relax, and raise a glass with friends before the holiday rush begins.
Why Celebrate Drinksgiving?
Drinksgiving has become a much-anticipated event for several reasons, each one adding to the festive and relaxed atmosphere:
- Reuniting with Friends: For many, Drinksgiving is the one time of year when friends return home, creating the perfect opportunity to catch up with old pals.
- Pre-Holiday Fun: Thanksgiving can be a busy and sometimes stressful day for those cooking, hosting, or traveling. Drinksgiving offers a chance to unwind before the big day.
- Festive Cocktails: Bars and restaurants often feature special seasonal drinks, adding to the night’s celebratory feel and encouraging people to start the holiday season on a high note.
Tips for Hosting a Drinksgiving Gathering
If you’d prefer to skip the crowded bars and host a cozy Drinksgiving party at home, here are some tips for creating a memorable night that’s both fun and safe:
- Create a Festive Atmosphere: Set the tone with fall-themed decor, like pumpkins, candles, and cozy lighting. A few small touches go a long way in setting a welcoming mood.
- Offer Hearty Appetizers: Keep your guests fueled with hearty snacks like sliders, wings, and a charcuterie board. Good food keeps the energy up and pairs well with drinks.
- Plan for Safe Transportation: If guests are heading home after the party, encourage ride-sharing options, or set up a designated driver plan to ensure everyone arrives home safely.
- Serve Special Drinksgiving Cocktails: Elevate your gathering with some fun, holiday-inspired cocktails. Try apple cider mules, cranberry spritzers, or classic gin and tonics with a twist to impress your guests and add to the festivities.
Turkey Day Sour
Ingredients
- 0.75 oz Apple Pear Barmalade
- 0.75 oz Bourbon
- 0.75 oz Howler Head (Banana Bourbon)
- 0.5 oz Licor 43 (Spanish vanilla and citrus liqueur)
- 0.5 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
- 0.25 oz Creole orgeat (a spiced almond syrup)
- Foam topper (egg white foam, aquafaba foam, or a pre-made cocktail foam)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Foam:
• If you’re making egg white or aquafaba foam, whisk or shake it separately until frothy.
2. Mix the Cocktail:
- In a shaker, combine the Apple Pear Barmalade, Bourbon, Howler Head, Licor 43, Lemon Juice, and Creole Orgeat.
- Add ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to chill and mix thoroughly.
3. Strain and Serve:
• Double strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or rocks glass.
4. Top with Foam:
• Carefully spoon or pour the foam over the top to create a smooth layer.
5. Garnish:
• For an extra flair, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg, or add a small edible flower.
Drinksgiving Safety Tips
While Drinksgiving is all about celebration, keeping safety in mind is essential. Statistics show that Thanksgiving Eve can be one of the year’s most dangerous nights on the roads due to increased alcohol consumption. So whether you’re hitting the bar or hosting friends at home, plan ahead:
- Arrange Transportation: Decide on a designated driver or plan to use ride-sharing apps if you’ll be out on the town.
- Stay Hydrated: Encourage guests to stay hydrated throughout the evening with plenty of water and non-alcoholic options.
- Set a Closing Time: Keeping your gathering to a reasonable timeframe can help everyone enjoy the night without overdoing it.
The Drinksgiving Experience
For many, Drinksgiving is more than a night out—it’s a tradition that sets the tone for the Thanksgiving holiday. It’s about rekindling friendships, sharing stories, and welcoming the holiday season with a sense of joy and gratitude. Whether you’re spending it at your favorite hometown bar or hosting a small gathering at home, Drinksgiving is a time to celebrate connection and the simple joy of being together.
So, this November 27th, grab your friends, mix up some festive cocktails, and kick off Thanksgiving with a night to remember. Drinksgiving may be informal, but its spirit of camaraderie and fun is the perfect prelude to Thanksgiving. Cheers!
