Sacramento may be a farm-to-fork city, but it also knows how to pour a great holiday drink. From spiced hot toddies in cozy lounges to gingerbread old fashioneds in craft cocktail bars, the city’s bartenders go all-in for the season. Whether you’re planning a holiday date night, a girls’ night out, or just want to unwind after a long shopping trip, here’s where to sip the best holiday cocktails in Sacramento for 2025.
Classic Holiday Favorites
Eggnog Martini — The Firehouse (Old Sacramento)
- Creamy, rich, and spiked with brandy and nutmeg.
- Served in a historic dining room that feels like a holiday postcard.
Mulled Wine — Revolution Wines (Midtown)
- Sacramento’s only urban winery brings a European tradition to Midtown.
- Warm, spiced, and perfect for a chilly night.
Hot Buttered Rum — Shady Lady Saloon (Midtown)
- Old-school cocktail with butter, brown sugar, and dark rum.
- Served in a speakeasy-style bar lit with holiday garlands.
Creative Craft Twists
Peppermint White Russian — The Jungle Bird (Midtown)
- A tiki-inspired bar serving a winter twist on a classic.
- White chocolate, peppermint schnapps, and a candy cane garnish.
Cranberry Margarita — Cantina Alley (Midtown)
- Tart cranberries meet tequila for a red-and-green holiday spin.
- Perfect balance of festive and refreshing.
Gingerbread Old Fashioned — Hawk’s Public House (East Sac)
- Classic whiskey cocktail infused with gingerbread syrup.
- Spicy, cozy, and made for winter sipping.
Cozy Bars With Holiday Menus
Snug (Midtown)
Known for rotating seasonal menus — December usually brings hot toddies, Irish coffee twists, and spiked cider.
Hook & Ladder (Midtown)
Farm-to-fork cocktails using local produce, often with pomegranate, fig, and rosemary this time of year.
Local Spirits for DIY Holiday Cocktails
If you’d rather host at home, Sacramento’s local distilleries bring the ingredients:
- Dry Diggings Distillery (El Dorado Hills): Small-batch whiskey and brandy.
- Gold River Distillery
💡 DIY Idea: Try a Sacramento-style cranberry mule with vodka, ginger beer, lime, and cranberries.
Table: Holiday Cocktails in Sacramento 2025
| Cocktail | Where to Try It | Vibe | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eggnog Martini | The Firehouse (Old Sac) | Historic & cozy | $$$ |
| Mulled Wine | Revolution Wines (Midtown) | Winery lounge | $$ |
| Hot Buttered Rum | Shady Lady (Midtown) | Speakeasy vibe | $$ |
| Peppermint White Russian | Jungle Bird (Midtown) | Tiki holiday fun | $$ |
| Cranberry Margarita | Cantina Alley (Midtown) | Festive & lively | $$ |
| Gingerbread Old Fashioned | Hawk’s Public House (East Sac) | Upscale casual | $$–$$$ |
FAQs: Sacramento Holiday Cocktails
What’s the best holiday cocktail bar in Sacramento?
Shady Lady and The Jungle Bird both create standout seasonal menus.
Where can I get mulled wine in Sacramento?
Revolution Wines serves it warm and spiced in Midtown.
Which bar has the most Instagram-worthy holiday drinks?
The Jungle Bird’s peppermint White Russian is as photogenic as it is tasty.
Do Sacramento distilleries make good holiday spirits?
Yes — Dry Diggings and J.J. Pfister produce excellent local liquors for festive cocktails.
What’s a good holiday cocktail for home entertaining?
Try a cranberry mule with Sacramento-made vodka for a local twist.
Final Word
Sacramento mixes up holiday cheer one glass at a time. Whether you’re sipping an eggnog martini in Old Sac, a gingerbread old fashioned in East Sac, or crafting your own cocktails with local spirits, the city offers plenty of ways to toast the season.
👉 This December, swap the hot cocoa for something stronger — Sacramento’s holiday cocktail scene has you covered.
Related Resources:
The Best Wineries Near Sacramento for Holiday Tastings
The Best Holiday Craft Fairs & Artisan Markets In Sacramento 2025
The Best Holiday Light Installation In Sacramento With Santa’s Lights
Holiday-Themed Food Pairings: Delight Your Guests with Unique Food and Drink Combos
How to Host a Memorable Christmas Party: Tips and Tricks for Planning a Festive Holiday Gathering
Holiday Photo Booth: Capture Memorable Moments with Fun Props
Festive Home Decor: Brighten Your Home with Lights, Garlands, and Wreaths
The Best Christmas Lights & Neighborhood Displays In Sacramento 2025
