Whether you plan to celebrate or protest, the U.S. Presidential inauguration week begins with gatherings of all kinds. This recipe comes from a 1989 Board of Deaconesses pamphlet in the archives at Historic Newton in Newton, Massachusetts. Deaconesses are laywomen who serve the ministry in a Protestant church, so it’s no surprise that these recipes contain nothing more potent than tea.  Most simply give variations on fruit and sugar. Still, a batch in a bowl can get your party started. I didn’t spike this citrusy fruit punch for an office party, but what about another time? Vodka? Gin? I’m open to suggestions!

Board of Deaconesses Fruit Punch (1989)
Serves 20

1 1/2 quarts pineapple juice
Juice of 4 lemons, 4 oranges, and 1 1/2 limes
1 cup sugar [I omitted this]
1 bunch fresh mint leaves
2 quarts ginger ale
1 quart plain soda water
1 cup quartered fresh strawberries

1. In a container with a lid, mix the pineapple juice, citrus juices, sugar (if using) and mint. Cover and chill at least 2 hours.
2. Just before serving, add the ginger ale, soda, and strawberries. Pour over ice in a punch bowl.