Here’s a unique cocktail party idea to celebrate the holidays with friends.
The idea is simple: guests are invited to participate in a fun little contest. Those who want to participate, bring the ingredients to mix up their favourite cocktail for everyone to sample. Whoever makes the best cocktail, wins bragging rights and their name engraved on the coveted Silver Shaker – our version of the Stanley Cup.
We started this Cup O Cheer Cocktail Competition almost 20 years ago and it’s become an annual tradition. An excuse to get together, share a few laughs, eat good food and drink delicious cocktails.
Funny but true: A few things we learned after the first year:
- It shouldn’t be every person invited that creates a cocktail. Many couples chose to enter the contest independently….ahem…. 10 couples. The doubling of drinks meant a LOT of cocktails to sample. It was a little too much.
- Categories for judging the cocktail is super helpful in selecting a winner.
- One presentation drink should be left on display so that when voting time comes -people remember who made what.
- You don’t have to drink a whole drink (unless you want to) – a sip is all you need (again see point number 1)
The Rules for the Cup O Cheer Cocktail Competition
- Each couple brings the ingredients needed for their drink (and any special cups, glasses etc.)
- Drinks are judged on creativity, taste and presentation
- Drinks are spaced out throughout the evening.
- Guests decide the order they want to go in, but you could draw names to decide.
- Once the drink’s created – a “presentation” drink sits on tray with name card so that come voting time -everyone can see (and remember) the name of your drink and who made it.
- Using score cards is helpful but not everyone opts for that.
- Ballots are handed out and people vote by writing their fave (based on criteria).
- Ballots are collected by hosts, counted out and winner is announced!
The cocktail party has evolved over the years and just when we think it can’t be topped – guests become even more innovative with their presentation and creativity.
We’ve witnessed homemade giant ice sculptures, huge paper mâché figures, light up displays, elaborate costumes, questionable poems, hilarious lip syncs and exuberant dance moves.
That’s not to be outdone by the amazing tastes we’ve experienced: homemade ginger ale, frozen delights, warm toddies, sweet shooters, classic cocktails and even fresh spun cotton candy.
Looking for holiday cocktail inspo? Here’s a 2 ingredient cocktail you’ll fall in love with this holiday and a chocolate egg nog cocktail to put you in a festive mood.
We love looking back at the names etched on that Silver Shaker. It’s like a portal back in time. So amazing how one simple idea has turned into years of joyful memories.
A few last tips:
- Send invites at least 2-3 weeks ahead of time so that guests have a chance to think about their cocktail submission. Let them know the judging criteria and how many people to expect.
- Prep a counter area for guests to create their drinks and set out utensils, shakers, they can use for mixing, measuring etc. (I also set out my blender in case someone needs it)
- Be sure you have lots of ice.
- Clear out some room in your fridge/freezer – someone usually needs to keep something cold
- Provide ample food, snacks and water to go with all that “cheer.”
- Plan ahead in case someone’s had too much “cheer.” Be sure you have a safe way for them to get home or set up space for them to stay over.
For a few more hosting tips, check out this blog post – everything to help guests feel at home and get you ready to be the hostess with the mostest!
Do you have a fun party idea that’s become an annual tradition? Let me know in the comments – I love hearing unique ways you’ve found to gather with the important people in your life.
Cheers!
