• by Teresa Buyikian , 2 hours ago

Aperol is bringing its classic summer cocktail to holiday gatherings this season.

The brand has announced its first “Aperolidays,” which is defined as “a modern celebration that brings Aperol's signature Italian aperitivo culture to year-end celebrations, inspiring adults to gather, connect and spritz together this season.”

A new holiday merch collection commemorates the Aperolidays, which includes knit sweaters and ornaments in the aperitivo’s bright signature orange color, as well as drink charms, keychains, hats, socks, postcards and patches. Items from the Aperolidays collection are priced from $8 to $80 and are available while supplies last.

Through a series of seasonal pop-ups in New York City, the brand hopes to “turn everyday moments into festive occasions” with seasonal cocktails, immersive décor, and limited-edition experiences “inspired by the joy of the Italian aperitivo.” The brand will be announcing the pop ups via its Instagram @AperolSpritzOfficial.

"We wanted to show that the Aperol Spritz isn't just a summer drink. It helps create moments of connection that fit every season," says Allison Varone, head of marketing, Campari America, in a release. 

To promote the brand’s holiday efforts, it partnered with Canadian actress Nina Dobrev (“The Vampire Diaries”) who is showcasing the Aperol Spritz as the “perfect cocktail for the holiday season,” via her Instagram @nina. In a short video, seen here, Dobrev’s holiday doppelganger introduces Aperolidays to her less-than-spirited self, decorating in bright orange while making Aperol spritzes.

A limited-edition holiday Aperol Spritz cocktail kit is available while supplies last via Cocktail Courier. The kit, which sells for $84.99, contains Aperol, Prosecco, soda water, fresh oranges and “festive extras” such as themed earmuffs, an official Aperol Spritz ornament, and branded glassware.