Two Great Ideas for Non-Alcoholic "Cocktail" Parties

When most people think of a cocktail party, they think of martinis, wine tastings, and various other alcoholic goodies. However, many people cannot drink, whether it be for religious reasons, health reasons, or just due to a personal choice. But even if you and all your guests are non-drinkers, you can still have a great Friday night "cocktail" party sans liquor. Here are some ideas for grown up non-alcoholic parties.

Coffee and Hot Beverage Bar

These days, Starbucks and other chain coffee houses are all the rage. A great beverage idea for a non-alcoholic "cocktail" party is a gourmet coffee and hot chocolate bar. Even if you don't have the expensive steamer equipment, you can still serve up some great offerings. Brew up about five to ten pots of gourmet coffee and pour them into a dispenser that will keep the brew piping hot. Purchase a variety of flavoured creamers, and make sure that you also have plenty of milk and sugar on hand. Another fabulous option is flavoured stirring spoons. Take a regular spoon and dip the front end into melted chocolate, then allow to cool (sprinkling a bit of powdered sugar or red crystal sprinkles is a great touch). Guests can use these to stir cream into their coffee, and the chocolate will melt off into their beverage. For a little more variety, also create some spoons that have melted white chocolate, caramel, butterscotch - don't be afraid to play with variety. As for appetizers, these sugary beverages are best complimented with pastries, cookies, and cakes. Those can either be baked homemade, or purchased at your nearest bakery or grocer. Cool jazz on the sound system will complement the offerings, and keep the lighting soft - I would suggest candles.

Virgin Mary Bar

Throwing a non-alcoholic sports party? Nothing will compliment the salty chips, crackers, and grill offerings of a football or basketball viewing party like a virgin mary bar. Stock up on canned tomato juice and pour into a large punch bowl after chilling. Offer guests different seasons to add to their juice, such as celery salt, fresh ground pepper, Worshester sauce, horseradish, and tobasco. Even sans vodka, tomato juice is delicious with added seasonings and spices. Don't forget garnishes such as green olives (try blue cheese stuffed!), kosher pickles, and lemon and lime wedges. Keep the party going after the big game with old rock music like Aerosmith and Bon Jovi, and keep it festive with Christmas lights strung all around.

There are two ideas for a fun non-alcoholic "cocktail" party. Don't forget to always be creative when planning an event, and remember - just because you don't have booze doesn't mean you can't have a great time!