Abstract: A drinking vessel includes a container sized and shaped so as to hold liquid therein and a generating mechanism for generating electrically generated special effects so as to enhance amusement for a user. A first switch is mounted on the container so as to be operable between a first state, in which the first switch is in an electrically closed state, and a second state, in which the first switch is in an electrically open state. The first switch is in the first state when liquid is present in the container and in the second state when liquid is not present in the container. A second switch is also mounted on the container so as to be operable between a third state, in which the second switch is in an electrically closed state, and a fourth state, in which the second switch is in an electrically open state. The second switch is in the third state in response to a predetermined physical activity undertaken by the user in relation to the container.

Abstract: A novelty article for use in connection with liquid has a body and a generating mechanism, which is attached to the body, for generating electrically produced special effects, such as audible sounds and visible lights, so as to enhance amusement for a user. The generating mechanism is provided with an activating mechanism, which is attached to the body, for activating the generating mechanism in response to contact by liquid. In accordance with one feature of the present invention, the body includes a drinking straw having a passageway for liquid. The activating mechanism has a pair of electrical contacts positioned in the passageway so as to activate the generating mechanism in response to liquid flow through the passageway.