You’re never drinking alone if you’re drinking in an airport: the Sip & Soar Holiday Drink Showdown has official begun at YYC Calgary International Airport.
Seven participating bars have created unique holiday cocktails, only available until Dec. 31, 2024. Drop in before your flight and raise your spirits – and don’t forget to vote for your favourites.
Take a sip before you soar this season – but remember to drink responsibly!
The Cocktails
Blood Orange Holiday Mule
Flames Grill in A Gates
This vodka (or gin!) based mule cheekily mirrors the restaurant palette: Flames red all the way! But unlike the Battle for Alberta, these ingredients aren’t competing. Instead you’ll find lime juice, ginger beer and blood orange syrup mixing in perfect harmony. As they say, teamwork makes the drink work!
Buddy the Elf’s Bulldog
Chili’s at A & D Gates
The bulldogs are barking! A frozen beach blend of Bacardi White Rum and champagne, with a hint of raspberry puree, the real star of this show is the 50ml bottle of Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey served upside down into the frosty mixture.
Snowy Black Forest Cake
Burger Federation at A Gates
Chill out with this delightful desert drink. With a base of cacao white liqueur mixed with Chambord Royal, milk, grenadine, chocolate sauce and whipped cream topping, there’s snow better companion to a wintery travel day.
Naughty & Nice
LB Taphouse at C Gates
A naughty list you want to be on, this vodka based cocktail is mixed with cranberry and orange juices, club soda and rosemary for a scandalous little kick before takeoff. For those who prefer to keep their halos afloat, there’s a nice version of this drink made without alcohol.
Mistletoe Margarita
Vino Volo at C & E Gates
Sweeter on the lips than a holiday kiss, the Mistletoe Margarita is the only Tequila-based drink on this year’s list. A mixture of Jose Cuervo, triple sec, chili syrup, lime juice and cranberry juice, garnished with an orange twist, it’s sure to lift your spirits before a long flight.
Santa’s Express
Vin Room at D Gates
Cozy up to this delectable hot chocolate with a truly cheerful garnish: rum. Specifically, maple rum cream topped with whipped cream and a candy cane rim. This drink is sure to warm your spirits even on the coldest of travel days – made with or without alcohol.
Merry Noto
Yakima Social Kitchen & Bar at The Marriott
With a base of Vincent van Gogh Expresso Vodka, this cocktail is sure to leave an impression. Topped with locally made Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream and a gingerbread cookie garnish, this is the only cocktail on the list that’s available pre-security. A great way to toast with loved ones before heading to your gate.