Holiday Spirits: Festive Cocktails in Indian River County
Festive cocktails in Indian River County take center stage during the holiday season, as local bars and cocktail lounges embrace creative, seasonal flavors designed for celebrating. From cozy, spirit-forward sips to playful twists inspired by holiday traditions, these drinks add an extra layer of cheer to nights out across Vero Beach and Sebastian. Whether you’re gathering with friends, planning a date night, or simply looking to toast the season, Indian River County offers no shortage of places serving cocktails that feel just as special as the holidays themselves.
21st Amendment Distillery – Vero Beach, FL
21st Amendment Distillery sets the tone for holiday sipping with a creative cocktail menu crafted using spirits distilled right on site. Known for its relaxed, Prohibition-era–inspired vibe, this Vero Beach distillery leans into seasonal flavors with drinks that feel playful, bold, and perfect for the colder months—whether you’re stopping in for a casual night out or kicking off a festive evening with friends.
During my visit, I sampled a lineup of standout cocktails including the Reese’s Old Fashioned, Holy Matcha, Apple Pie, The Fourth Bean, and the aptly named Mother of Dragons—each offering its own seasonal twist, from cozy and spiced to rich and spirited. To balance out the tasting, the meatball sliders delivered a savory bite that paired perfectly with the cocktails, making 21st Amendment Distillery an easy choice for both festive drinks and a little something to eat along the way.
21st Amendment Distillery
Address: 2055 13th Ave, Vero Beach, FL 32960
Phone: (772) 404-7660
Pet Policy: Pet friendly on the outdoor patio
Capt Hiram’s Resort – Sebastian, FL
Capt Hiram’s Resort in Sebastian delivers holiday cheer with a laid-back, waterfront twist, blending festive cocktails with the easygoing island atmosphere the destination is known for. With river views, tropical decor, and a lively energy that carries through the season, it’s the kind of place where holiday drinks feel fun, approachable, and perfectly suited for celebrating along the Indian River.
During my visit, the seasonal cocktail lineup leaned fully into the spirit of the holidays with playful creations like Jolly GINger, Santa’s Nightcap Hot Chocolate, Holy Jolly Piña colada, Moose LaTini, and Mistletoe Mule. Each drink brought its own festive personality, offering everything from warm and cozy flavors to tropical twists, making Capt Hiram’s an easy stop for anyone looking to enjoy holiday cocktails with a waterfront backdrop.
Capt Hirams Resort
Address: 1580 U.S. Rte 1, Sebastian, FL 32958
Phone: (772) 388-8588
Pet Policy: Pets are permitted on the deck between Blackfin’s Riverfront Grill and The Sandbar Beach Club, meaning your dog can join you in those outdoor seating spaces while you enjoy food and drinks.
Sol Mar Cocktail Lounge – Vero Beach, FL
Sol Mar Cocktail Lounge has become a favorite in Vero Beach for those who appreciate creative cocktails served in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Owned by Gina and John, Sol Mar will celebrate six years in business in February 2026, a milestone that reflects their passion and consistency behind the bar. John feels most at home crafting drinks, while Gina is the creative force behind many of the cocktail concepts, brought to life by a knowledgeable bartending team—several of whom have been with Sol Mar since day one. The name Sol Mar, meaning Sun and Sea in Spanish, is a nod to its sunny Florida location, while the golden pineapple in the logo symbolizes hospitality and warmth.
The holiday cocktail menu showcased that creativity with festive standouts like Mrs Claus Nightcap, Grandma’s Kitchen, Resting Grinch Face, Can I Have S’More, and Sip Me I’m Frosty. Each drink leaned into seasonal flavors with playful names and thoughtful execution, reinforcing Sol Mar’s reputation as a place where cocktails are taken seriously, making it a perfect stop for celebrating the season in Indian River County.
Sol Mar Cocktail Lounge
Address: 2855 Ocean Dr # B3, Vero Beach, FL 32963
Pet Policy: Only service animals allowed.
The Boiler – Vero Beach, FL
The Boiler Bar has been part of Vero Beach’s cocktail scene since opening in 2019, starting as a blank slate that has organically evolved into one of the area’s most beloved local hangouts. Located just steps from the beach, the bar subtly pays homage to its coastal surroundings and nearby local history through its decor and laid-back vibe. As bartender Sasha shared, it’s been especially rewarding to watch the space transform over the years into what it is today—a spot that feels equally welcoming to longtime locals and visiting tourists staying at nearby hotels.
Connected to the bottle shop near Ocean Drive, The Boiler Bar operates as part of one big, happy family, with a walk-through that allows guests to move seamlessly between the shop and the bar. Owning the bottle shop has also given the team the freedom to curate an impressive selection of spirits, including the largest collection of bourbon in Indian River County, while still keeping the atmosphere relaxed and approachable. During my visit, I sampled The Snow Miser and The Heat Miser, festive cocktails inspired by The Year Without a Santa Claus, perfectly capturing the bar’s ability to balance a cool local vibe with creative, elegant drinks that truly offer something for everyone.
The Boiler
Address: 3410 Ocean Dr, Vero Beach, FL 32963
Phone: (772) 217-4977
Pet Policy: Well behaved pets are welcome.
