From Viral Trend to Party Staple: The Dirty Soda Gets a RumChata Holiday Glow-Up

New Year’s Eve carries a unique kind of magic. It’s the one night of the year that’s all about looking back and moving forward, celebrating what’s been and toasting to what’s to come. Whether your plans involve an epic house party, an intimate gathering with close friends, or even just a quiet night with a couple of great drinks, there’s one universal goal: to make the night memorable.

For Kalena Alva, a Nashville-based home chef and lifestyle enthusiast, the holiday is about blending connection and creativity. On social media (@kalenainthekitchen), Alva is known for sharing approachable, wholesome recipes with her growing audience, and her New Year’s Eve traditions align perfectly with her ethos. This year, she’s putting a fun twist on her festivities by incorporating a RumChata Dirty Soda into her evening plans.

“It’s a drink that feels special, but it’s so easy to make,” Alva says.

Kalena Alva with RumChata

So, what is a RumChata Dirty Soda? The playful cocktail combines the creamy richness of RumChata, a cream liqueur made with Caribbean rum, dairy cream, and a signature mix of cinnamon and vanilla, with the fizzy sweetness of soda. The result is indulgent yet refreshing — a drink that tastes like a celebration in a glass.

“I love the creaminess RumChata adds to a dirty soda,” Alva explains. “And the hint of cinnamon is perfect for the holiday vibe!”

If you’ve spent any time on social media this year, chances are you’ve come across “dirty sodas.” This viral trend, which started as a regional favorite in Utah, has taken the internet by storm, earning a loyal following for its playful combination of soda, syrups, and creamy ingredients. The result? Fizzy, indulgent beverages that feel like a dessert and a cocktail all in one.

The beauty of the RumChata Dirty Soda is its simplicity. With just two ingredients — RumChata and your soda of choice — you can whip up a cocktail that feels decadent but doesn’t require a stocked bar or elaborate prep.

“It’s such a simple drink to make, but it feels special,” Alva says. Its versatility also means you can serve it at any point during the evening. Alva suggests offering it as a dessert drink for guests who prefer something creamy, cold, and sweet. Another bonus: When made with a caffeinated soda it can help keep the energy going long after dinner.

For those planning a New Year’s Eve bash, Alva suggests setting up a DIY dirty soda station. Arrange bottles of RumChata, various sodas, and plenty of ice, and let guests mix their own creations. “I think it would be fun to set up a dirty soda station with the ingredients for guests to make their own,” Alva says. It’s a win-win: You get to focus on enjoying the party, and your guests get a chance to unleash their creativity.

Kalena Alva with her RumChata Dirty Soda

The RumChata Dirty Soda is more than just a cocktail — it’s an experience. Its creamy, dessert-like texture combined with the warming spice of cinnamon and vanilla is tailor-made for holiday celebrations. Whether you serve it as a sweet treat to close out the evening or raise it as a toast at midnight, it’s a drink that embodies the festive spirit of New Year’s Eve.

How to Make a RumChata Dirty Soda

Fill a glass with ice. Start with a cold base to keep your drink crisp and refreshing.
Pour in 2 ounces of RumChata.
Choose your favorite soda. Classic cola or cream soda are all excellent choices.
Stir gently. Let the flavors combine without losing the soda’s effervescence.

That’s it. In just a few simple steps, you have a creamy, fizzy cocktail that’s as easy to make as it is to enjoy.

This article is sponsored by RumChata.

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