Party Drink Calculator
Avoid last-minute store runs. Estimate wine, beer, cocktails, and mixers for your next party in minutes.
Total alcoholic drinks
120
Accounts for first-hour bump and event style
Wine & beer
1 wine bottles · 42 beers
1 wine bottle ≈ 5 pours · beer count assumes 12 oz bottles
Spirits & mixers
2 liquor bottles
20 L mocktails · 24 L water · 120 lb ice
Serving plan
- Start strong: 2 drinks per guest the first hour covers welcome cocktails and toasts.
- Afterward: 1 drink per guest per hour keeps the bar active but controlled.
- Snacks: Plan around 20 handheld bites plus 4 lb of additional proteins or appetizers.
How to Use This Calculator
Enter guests & hours
Drinks scale with both headcount and party length so you won’t overbuy or run dry.
Select party style
Cocktail receptions have a higher pace than casual BBQs—style factor adjusts accordingly.
Review shopping list
Use wine, beer, spirit, and mixer totals as your buying guide. Add non-alcoholic options for inclusivity.
Formula
Drinks per guest = 2 + (hours − 1) × 1
Total drinks = guests × drinks per guest × style factor
Example: 25 guests, 5 hours, cocktail party → 25 × (2 + 4) × 1.2 ≈ 180 drinks → 14 wine bottles, 63 beers, 5 liquor bottles.
Tip: If you provide signature cocktails, estimate 3 drinks per guest in the first two hours and reduce beer/wine accordingly.
Full Description
Running a bar for a party requires balancing variety, quantity, and safety. This calculator helps hosts plan alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages tailored to event length, style, and guest preferences. It outputs wine, beer, and spirit counts, plus mixer and water suggestions so guests stay hydrated.
Use it for house parties, weddings, corporate mixers, or backyard celebrations. The built-in style factor adapts to cocktail-heavy evenings or laid-back BBQs. Always offer water and mocktails so everyone can participate comfortably.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much ice do I need?
Plan 1.5–2 lb per guest per hour if outdoors; at least 1 lb per guest indoors. Add extra for ice baths and cocktails.
What glassware should I provide?
Offer wine glasses, rocks glasses, and highballs. Disposable cups? Stock 1.5 cups per guest per hour.
Can I lower alcohol consumption?
Serve fun mocktails, offer plenty of food, and slow down the pace with planned games or activities between rounds.
How do I handle BYOB parties?
Use totals as a safety net—ask guests to bring favorites but ensure you have baseline beverages for everyone.