June 10, 2026

How Much Alcohol to Buy for a Party of 20

The Math

Planning drinks for 20 people is easier than you think. The rule of thumb: estimate 2 drinks per person for the first hour, and 1 drink per person for each hour after that. For a 4-hour party with 20 people, that's roughly 100 drinks total.

The Mix

Not everyone drinks the same thing. A safe split for a mixed crowd: 40% beer, 30% wine, 20% spirits/cocktails, 10% non-alcoholic. That translates to roughly: 40 beers (two 24-packs covers it with extra), 6–8 bottles of wine, 2–3 bottles of spirits, plus mixers and soft drinks.

Beer

Two 24-packs of something universally liked (Canadian, Coors Light), plus a craft option or import for variety. Keep them cold — ice and coolers are essential.

Wine

Split roughly 60/40 red to white in cooler weather, reverse that in summer. 4–5 reds, 3–4 whites. Don't overthink the selection — a reliable Cabernet, a Pinot Grigio, and a Sauvignon Blanc cover most preferences.

Spirits

One bottle of vodka, one bottle of rye/whisky, and mixers (ginger ale, cranberry juice, tonic, lime). That handles 90% of cocktail requests at a house party.

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