How People Toast to Christmas Around the World

As the festive season unfolds, people worldwide come together to celebrate Christmas with unique traditions and, of course, special drinks that reflect their cultural richness. Join us on a global tour of Christmas toasts and traditional beverages, as we explore how different corners of the world ring in the season with unique flair.

The US and Canada: Eggnog

Love it or hate it, eggnog is a traditional (and polarizing) Christmas drink. The creamy cocktail, whether spiked or nonalcoholic, has been a staple of the season in the US and Canada for centuries. Eggnog is often made with rum, brandy or bourbon, but we believe vodka is often a good substitute for other spirits. We also have several delicious cocktails that make use of egg whites — and may be more palatable for the whole crowd. Try the crisp Silver Fizz or the seasonally hued Rosy Ramos.

The UK: Wassail

Wassail, a time-honored English tradition, brings warmth and merriment to festive gatherings. This spiced and aromatic drink is made of a blend of apple cider, spices, and sometimes spirits. Typically made in batches and shared among friends and family, potentially while caroling door to door, Wassail is a great drink to serve while entertaining. You can try a similar, simple drink by making Warm Apple Cider Jug.

France: Kir Royale

In France (our home) the Christmas spirit takes a sophisticated turn with the cherished tradition of savouring Kir Royale. This elegant concoction features a blend of sparkling wine, typically champagne, and a touch of crème de cassis. The result is a shimmering, ruby-hued drink that encapsulates the essence of celebration. We like serving the similar Amour Rouge, which features crème de cassis and the French aperitif pineau des charentes.

Australia: Champagne

In keeping with the bubbly theme, Australians love to serve champagne at Christmastime. Unlike the previously listed countries, we’re located in the southern hemisphere, which means our Christmas season is right in the middle of summer instead of winter. Because of that, a cool beverage is in order. We incorporate champagne in the Pomegranate Sparkler, a fizzy drink served in a flute that embodies both the look and the tastes of the season.

Jamaica: Sorrel Rum Punch

In Jamaica, the Christmas season is infused with the vibrant flavours of Sorrel Rum Punch. This traditional festive libation combines the tropical essence of sorrel — an indigenous hibiscus flower — with Jamaican rum. Our Northern Lights pairs hibiscus with the seasonal flavours of apple and cinnamon (and sparkling wine makes an appearance yet again) for a flavourful cocktail.

Chile: Cola de Mono

In Chile, the Christmas season is celebrated with Cola de Mono, a traditional drink translated to "Monkey's Tail." This creamy concoction features coffee, milk, spices, and aguardiente. For a vodka-based milky drink you can make a White Russian, or enjoy espresso in the Candy Cane Martini Cocktail.

How to Toast in Different Languages

No matter what drink you serve, you can always end your toast with “cheers” in a different language. Here’s a handy guide of a few different ways to say it:
Spanish: ¡Salud!
French: Santé!
Italian: Cin cin!
German: Prost!
Portuguese: Saúde!
Japanese: Kanpai!
Korean: Geonbae!
Norwegian: Skål!
Greek: Yamas!
Czech: Na zdraví!

The celebration of the season is as diverse as the cultures that embrace it. Each glass is raised in the spirit of joy, togetherness and the goodwill that unites us all. So, this season, try making a traditional drink from a different country. Or you can also make just about any cocktail festive with these drink-decorating ideas.