Is it really Bonfire Night already? We’re so close to Christmas parties now it’s frankly bizarre – yet of course, before you start opening your advent calendar, you might have a few bonfire parties and gatherings to plan.
Bonfire Night is all about gathering with loved ones in the autumn chill. Whether it’s watching fireworks, toasting marshmallows, or enjoying some al fresco entertainment, there are lots of wonderful ways to mark the fifth of November.
In fact, in my house, it’s a fabulous chance to share a few tasty cocktails and a delicious bonfire spread. Although many bonfire parties will serve up toffee apples and hot toddies, there are plenty of great ways to make your gathering unique, luxurious, and memorable with SWISH.
Let me take you through a few of our team’s favourite flavours that will pair perfectly with the crackle and fizz of an upcoming bonfire.
Give Bonfire Night a cheeky kickstart
Bonfire Night is all about sparkle and pizzazz – so why can’t the drinks you serve be the same? If you’re tired of the same old cups of tea and hot toddies, I hear you – and greatly recommend you consider a spritz or two.
You could, for example, give your bonfire bash a little extra touch of luxury with a cooler of Naughty Passion Martini Spritz, served while your guests are cosying up around the fire.
This delicious twist on the cocktail classic is utterly timeless – and that goes throughout the year, too. Yes – it’s a fabulous summery drink when served a certain way, but you can wow your gathering guests in a whole different way when putting on a bonfire show.
SWISH drinks are ready to serve right from the can – meaning there's no need for mixing or heating up at the stove. Simply fill your guests' glasses with a martini spritz while they watch the fire crackle and the fireworks pop.
Classic cocktails and casual chatter
The best Bonfire Night parties should be cosy, comfortable affairs where everyone gets a chance to sit and talk a while. One of the best ways to settle guests into a fifth of November gathering is, of course, to serve food and drink that are familiar and memorable.
It's one of the reasons why SWISH has put incredible effort into recreating some of the world's best-loved cocktail recipes with the freshest ingredients. For example, in just a moment, you can serve up our classic take on the Mojito – our Key Lime Mojito Fizz – or, our signature Breakfast Fizz (a take on Marmalade on Toast).
Because there's no need for mixing or muddling with different ingredients and flavours, you can keep the bonfire conversations rolling while you handily pour and serve to family and friends. With a stylish outdoor cooler, you might not even need to head back to the bar or kitchen.
Al fresco entertainment at this time of year can get tricky at times because the night draws in quickly – but with a roaring fire, some visual entertainment, and a raft of familiar, tantalising drinks, you’re always ready to lay on the luxury for your Bonfire Night guests.
Put on a spread for everyone
If you’re like me, you care deeply about making sure everyone is included. Although SWISH drinks are designed to be luxurious and effortless, that doesn’t mean they are inaccessible. We are always expanding our drinks line, and what’s more, we have a range to suit all tastes at your autumnal gatherings.
For instance, we have an ever-growing selection of zero-alcohol drinks that are just as delicious and effortless to serve. Don't worry about any guests struggling for something to drink if they want to avoid alcohol – we developed our range so as many people as possible can sip and sample our fresh ingredients and fabulous recipes.
Make your bonfire party more inclusive! Draft up a menu of cocktails and mocktails for guests to choose from, and let any non-drinkers know that there are plenty of options available. It's yet another way to make your autumn gatherings that little bit more memorable as the year pulls to a close.
A bonfire party, ready to go when you are
As with any parties or gatherings, planning for Bonfire Night can sometimes be a little overwhelming. If you’re hosting fireworks, you’ll need someone to store and set them off safely. Is there someone in charge of the buffet? What about making sure any children in attendance are safe and well-entertained?
Imagine having to add the stress of preparing and mixing drinks to this list! I’m sure you’ve been through party management of this kind of magnitude before – but when you have a handy selection of SWISH drinks ready to serve, you have a party in a crate ready to go whenever you and your guests are.
In fact, you can build your own custom selection of SWISH drinks with a gift box through our website. Either choose our carefully curated selection box, or refill your cooler with the recipes and flavours you know that you and your guests always enjoy.
I’m all for going with the flow – and while Bonfire Night will always need some careful planning, you can afford to be a little more spontaneous when it comes to arranging and serving a luxury line of drinks.
Make your party go off with a bang
Yes – even outdoor Bonfire Night parties can be fabulous and luxurious. Set up your favourite outdoor lighting, arrange seating around your patio or decking, and pile a bonfire high. Ask for help with preparing and managing fireworks, and create an autumnal menu your guests will find hard to resist.
Let SWISH take the hassle out of dreaming up drinks and mixing cocktails – and serve something a little different to the same old hot ciders and mulled wines.
Be sure to browse our full range of readymade cocktails and mocktails from our online store – and order soon to make sure you have plenty of stock ready for the big night.