Let’s be real, the days of relegating non-drinkers to sad cans of soda or tap water are over. The mocktail revolution is here and it’s not just a trend, it’s a movement. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, fancy dinner party or just having friends over to watch the game, having a solid mocktail game is no longer optional; it’s mandatory.
The landscape of social gatherings in America is changing and more and more people are looking for non-alcoholic beverage options. This shift towards mindful drinking is due to a variety of reasons including health consciousness, lifestyle choices, and wanting to be inclusive at events.
Looking to expand your mocktail game beyond the basics? You’re in the right place. I previously did top 10 classic mocktails everyone should try but today we’re getting into the most popular party mocktails in the USA based on search trends and popularity rankings.
Ready to be the host who impresses even your teetotaler friends? Let’s get mixing.
Table of Contents
Why Mocktails Matter at Your Party
First things first – why bother with mocktails?
Mocktails have gone beyond being simply non-alcoholic cocktails without the booze. They have become a whole category of drinks with unique and interesting flavor profiles. The ingredients and combinations used in mocktail-making have moved beyond basic sodas and juices to more complex concoctions.
Having a selection of mocktails at parties means that all your guests, no matter why they don’t drink – be it designated drivers, pregnant people, or those who just don’t drink – feel included and taken care of. By having interesting and tasty non-alcoholic drinks, you can elevate the whole party experience and make it more fun for everyone.
And let’s be real – who doesn’t want to be the host who goes the extra mile?
The Top 10 Must-Try Mocktails for Your Next Party
Based on articles and online resources listing popular non-alcoholic drinks and search trend data here are the top 10 mocktails at American gatherings:
1. Shirley Temple: The Original
The Shirley Temple is the top searched non-alcoholic drink. This classic, made with ginger ale or lemon-lime soda and sweet grenadine, was created in the 1930s and named after the child star.
How to make it:
- 4-6 oz ginger ale
- 1 oz grenadine
- Maraschino cherry for garnish
- (Optional) Splash of lime or orange juice
Pour ginger ale over ice in a tall highball glass, then add grenadine slowly so it settles at the bottom for that pretty layered look. Garnish with a maraschino cherry and optional orange slice.
The Shirley Temple’s enduring popularity (Food.com, source) speaks volumes; it’s a safe, nostalgic choice that appeals to practically everyone, and it’s ridiculously easy to make even when you’re juggling host duties.
Want to get fancy? Try substituting lemon-lime soda for the ginger ale, or use ginger syrup and club soda for a more pronounced ginger kick. And if some of your guests want to “dirty” their Shirley Temple later in the evening, a splash of vodka transforms it into a “Dirty Shirley.”
2. Virgin Mojito: Fresh and Sophisticated
The Virgin Mojito ranks high on the popularity list, particularly during warmer months. This sophisticated and invigorating non-alcoholic option captures the essence of its boozy counterpart without the rum.
How to make it:
- 6-8 fresh mint leaves
- 2-3 lime wedges
- ½ oz simple syrup or 1 tsp raw sugar
- Crushed ice
- 4 oz soda water
- (Optional) 2 oz non-alcoholic rum
- Mint sprig and lime wedge for garnish
Gently muddle the mint leaves with lime wedges and simple syrup in a highball glass to release those aromatic oils. Fill the glass with crushed ice, add non-alcoholic rum if desired, and top with soda water. Garnish with a lime wedge and fresh mint sprig.
The Virgin Mojito’s presence on multiple “best mocktails” lists attests to its popularity as a refreshing non-alcoholic alternative that doesn’t skimp on complexity or flavor.
For a twist, try muddling in some blueberries or strawberries, or use flavored simple syrups like raspberry or mint. Looking for more creative ways to customize your mocktails? Check out my Ultimate Guide to Making Mocktails at Home for endless inspiration.
3. Virgin Margarita: Zesty and Bold
The Virgin Margarita captures the quintessential tart and refreshing essence of the traditional Margarita, making it a highly sought-after non-alcoholic choice, especially for casual gatherings and parties with Mexican or Southwestern themes.
How to make it:
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1 oz orange juice (or 5 cups limeade for a larger batch)
- 2 oz simple syrup (or 1-2 tsp agave nectar)
- ⅓ cup sparkling water or club soda
- Salt or Tajin for rimming
- Lime wedge for garnish
Combine lime juice, orange juice, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker with ice. Shake vigorously until well-chilled. If desired, prepare a salt-rimmed glass by rubbing a lime wedge around the rim and dipping it in coarse salt or margarita salt. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass filled with fresh ice and top with sparkling water. Garnish with a lime wedge.
The Virgin Margarita consistently appears in popular mocktail lists, underscoring its widespread appeal as a flavorful and satisfying non-alcoholic alternative.
Ready to get creative? Try incorporating different fruit juices like strawberry, mango, or grapefruit for exciting new flavor profiles. For those who enjoy a hint of spice, muddle a slice or two of jalapeño before shaking.
4. Virgin Piña Colada: Tropical Vacation in a Glass
The Virgin Piña Colada offers an escape to the tropics with its creamy texture and sweet, indulgent flavor, making it a popular choice for summer parties or themed events. Think of it as a mini-vacation in a glass, minus the hangover.
How to make it:
- 1½ cups unsweetened frozen pineapple chunks
- ¾ cup unsweetened pineapple juice
- ¾ cup unsweetened coconut milk
- ¼ cup ice
- 1-3 tbsp brown sugar (optional)
- Fresh pineapple wedges and maraschino cherries for garnish
Combine frozen pineapple chunks, pineapple juice, coconut milk, ice, and brown sugar (if desired) in a blender. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. Taste and add more sweetener if needed. Pour into tall glasses and garnish with fresh pineapple wedges and maraschino cherries.
The consistent presence of the Virgin Piña Colada in popularity rankings highlights its status as a beloved non-alcoholic treat that evokes a sense of vacation and relaxation.
Pro tip: Using frozen pineapple instead of ice creates a thicker, smoothie-like texture. You can also incorporate other tropical fruit purees, such as mango or banana, to add complexity and layers of flavor.
5. Arnold Palmer: The Perfect Balance
The Arnold Palmer, a simple yet remarkably refreshing concoction of iced tea and lemonade, is widely appreciated and suitable for any time of year. Named after the legendary golfer, this drink perfectly balances sweet and tart flavors.
How to make it:
- ½ cup prepared iced tea
- ¼ cup prepared lemonade
- Ice
- Lemon slice for garnish
Combine iced tea with lemonade in a tall glass filled with ice. Stir gently to mix the two components. Garnish with a lemon slice.
The Arnold Palmer’s consistent appearance in popularity lists underscores its status as a go-to non-alcoholic beverage that perfectly balances sweet and tart flavors.
Variations of this classic can introduce subtle yet enjoyable changes. Try different types of tea, such as black, green, or oolong, or experiment with flavored lemonades like raspberry or strawberry. Adding sparkling water can introduce a pleasant fizz to the drink.
6. Virgin Mary: For the Savory Souls
Standing out among the predominantly sweet mocktail offerings, the Virgin Mary provides a unique savory and spicy alternative. It’s an excellent option for those who prefer non-sweet beverages or as a flavorful accompaniment to brunch or appetizers.
How to make it:
- 3 oz tomato juice
- ½ oz lemon juice
- 1 dash Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp celery salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 dashes hot sauce (adjust to preference)
- Celery stalk or pickle spear for garnish
Pour tomato juice and lemon juice into a highball glass filled with ice cubes. Stir well to combine. Add Worcestershire sauce, celery salt, black pepper, and hot sauce. Stir again to incorporate the seasonings. Garnish with a celery stalk or a pickle spear, or both, for a classic presentation.
The Virgin Mary’s inclusion in popular mocktail lists highlights its consistent appeal, particularly for those seeking a non-alcoholic alternative to the Bloody Mary.
The beauty of the Virgin Mary lies in its customizability. Adjust the hot sauce to control the spice level, or add a pinch of horseradish, smoked salt, or a few drops of liquid smoke for deeper, more complex flavors.
7. Virgin Sangria: The Party Pitcher
Virgin Sangria is a visually stunning and delightfully fruity beverage that is perfect for parties, especially during the warmer months. Its ability to be prepared in large batches makes it an ideal choice for entertaining.
How to make it:
- 1 orange, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 1 lemon, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 1 lime, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
- 2 medium apples, cored and chopped
- 3 cups red grape juice
- 1 cup white grape juice
- 1½ cups freshly squeezed orange juice
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1 25-oz bottle of sparkling apple cider or seltzer
Layer half of the sliced citrus fruits and chopped apples in the bottom of a 4-quart glass pitcher, followed by the remaining fruit. Pour in grape juices and fruit juices. Gently stir until well combined. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight. Just before serving, add sparkling apple cider or seltzer and stir gently. Serve over ice, ensuring each glass receives a generous portion of the fruit.
The Virgin Sangria’s presence as a fastest-rising mocktail highlights its increasing appeal as a festive and refreshing non-alcoholic option.
Experiment with different combinations of fruits and juices based on seasonal availability. Adding a cinnamon stick during the chilling process can impart a warm, subtle spice, perfect for fall gatherings.
8. Mango Mule: Exotic and Spicy
The Mango Mule offers a more adventurous and flavorful non-alcoholic experience, appealing to those seeking something beyond the traditional mocktail offerings. The vibrant combination of sweet mango, tart lime, and spicy ginger beer makes it a refreshing and invigorating choice.
How to make it:
- 1.5 oz mango puree
- 1.5 oz fresh lime juice
- ½ oz simple syrup (optional)
- 2 oz ginger beer
- Lime slice, cucumber slice, and mint sprig for garnish
Combine mango puree, lime juice, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake well until the shaker is frosted. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice and top with ginger beer. Garnish with a lime slice, cucumber slice, and a sprig of mint.
The Mango Mule’s appearance as a fastest-rising mocktail indicates a growing trend towards more exotic and flavorful non-alcoholic beverages.
For a refreshing twist, try adding 5-6 slices of muddled cucumber to the shaker before adding the other ingredients. This introduces a cooling note that complements the spiciness of the ginger beer beautifully.
9. Roy Rogers: Nostalgic Simplicity
Similar to the Shirley Temple, the Roy Rogers is a straightforward and nostalgic non-alcoholic drink that offers a sweet and familiar flavor profile. It’s a classic combination of cola and grenadine, making it a great option for guests of all ages.
How to make it:
- ¼ cup (2 oz) grenadine syrup
- 1½ cups (12 oz) cola
- Ice
- Maraschino cherries for garnish
Fill a highball or pint glass with ice, pour in the grenadine syrup, and gently top it with cola. Stir lightly to combine the ingredients and garnish with a few maraschino cherries.
The Roy Rogers’ presence as a fastest-rising mocktail confirms its enduring appeal as a classic non-alcoholic beverage.
For simple variations, try different types of cola, such as diet cola or flavored colas like vanilla. Some recipes suggest adding a splash of vanilla extract for a creamier, more dessert-like profile.
10. Virgin Paloma: Bright and Refreshing
Rounding out our top ten, the Virgin Paloma provides a refreshing and slightly tart alternative to sweeter mocktails, offering a sophisticated balance of flavors. The interplay between the bitterness of grapefruit and the tartness of lime, balanced by a touch of sweetness, makes it a uniquely appealing choice.
How to make it:
- 2 oz grapefruit juice (or grapefruit soda)
- 1 oz lime juice
- 1 oz simple syrup or agave nectar
- Soda water or club soda
- Salt (optional, for rimming)
- Lime or grapefruit wedge for garnish
Combine grapefruit juice, lime juice, and simple syrup in a shaker filled with ice. Shake well until chilled. If desired, prepare a salt-rimmed highball glass. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass filled with fresh ice and top with soda water. Garnish with a lime or grapefruit wedge.
The Virgin Paloma’s inclusion as a fastest-rising mocktail indicates its growing recognition and appeal as a sophisticated non-alcoholic option.
Try using different types of grapefruit juice, such as ruby red or white, to subtly alter the flavor profile. Adding a sprig of rosemary provides a delightful herbal aroma that complements the citrus notes beautifully.
Step Up Your Mocktail Game
Creating a memorable mocktail experience at a party is more than just mixing ingredients. Here are some pro tips to take your non-alcoholic drinks to the next level:
Mocktail Station
Setting up a mocktail station is a fun and interactive element of the party, where guests can customize their drinks with fresh fruits, fragrant herbs like mint and basil, flavored syrups and sparkling beverages. This way everyone can create their own perfect non-alcoholic drink to their taste.
Seasonal Mocktails
Adapting mocktails to the seasons adds a freshness and theme to the party. Use seasonal fruits like berries in the summer or apples and cranberries in the fall to create unique and delicious variations of classic mocktails. Seasonal flavored syrups like pumpkin spice or peppermint can also add to the festivity.
Dietary Restrictions
Many mocktails can be made sugar-free by using sugar substitutes like Splenda or agave nectar. Vegan alternatives like using coconut milk instead of dairy cream in creamy mocktails like the Virgin Piña Colada can also be easily done. Offering options for different dietary needs shows you’re a thoughtful host and inclusive.
It’s All About Presentation
Garnishes and presentations are key to elevating the mocktail experience. Fresh fruit slices, herb sprigs, flavored salt,s or sugar rims add so much to the visual appeal of the drink. Thoughtful presentation makes mocktails feel just as special and celebratory as the cocktails.
Conclusion: Cheers to Inclusive Hosting
The “10 Mocktails to Try at Parties” have a range of flavors and styles so there’s something for every guest. From the classic Shirley Temple to the tropical Mango Mule, these mocktails are party favorites in America.
Non-alcoholic drinks are becoming more popular and sophisticated so mocktails are no longer an afterthought but an important part of the drink menu at social gatherings across the US. By offering these yummy and inclusive options hosts can raise a glass to a great party for everyone.
Ready to get mixing? Check out my Ultimate Guide to Making Mocktails at Home for more info.
FAQ: Party Mocktails
Why should I offer mocktails at my party instead of just soda or juice?
Mocktails have evolved beyond simple substitutes for alcoholic drinks into sophisticated beverages with distinctive flavor profiles. They ensure all guests feel included, regardless of why they’re not drinking alcohol (designated drivers, pregnancy, personal preference). Plus, they add a festive touch that basic sodas and juices can’t match, elevating your party experience for everyone.
Which mocktail is best for a large party where I need to make batches in advance?
Virgin Sangria is ideal for large gatherings as it’s designed to be made in pitches and actually improves when prepared ahead of time. The recipe allows the fruit flavors to meld with the juices when refrigerated overnight, creating a more complex flavor profile. Just add the sparkling component (seltzer or apple cider) right before serving.
Are there any savory mocktail options for guests who don’t like sweet drinks?
Yes! The Virgin Mary stands out as a uniquely savory option among predominantly sweet mocktails. With its tomato base and customizable spice level, it’s perfect for those who prefer non-sweet beverages. It also pairs wonderfully with brunch foods or appetizers, making it a versatile addition to your mocktail menu.
How can I make my mocktails feel special and not like an afterthought?
Presentation is key! Use attractive garnishes like fresh fruit slices and herb sprigs, serve in appropriate glassware, and consider details like flavored salt or sugar rims. Setting up a dedicated mocktail station with various mix-ins allows guests to customize their drinks. Focus on quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation; treat mocktails with the same care you would cocktails.
Can I prepare most ingredients for these mocktails ahead of time?
Absolutely! Many components like simple syrups, fruit juices, and fruit slices can be prepared 1-2 days in advance. For drinks like the Virgin Mojito, you can pre-muddle mint and store the mint-infused simple syrup. The Virgin Sangria benefits from being made the day before. Just add any carbonated ingredients (soda water, ginger beer, etc.) right before serving to maintain their fizz.
