Fill two ice cube trays with apple cider and put in the freezer to freeze, 8-24 hours
Heat the sugar, cinnamon and about 1/3 cup water in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly. Cook until bubbling. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature
Combine the cranberry juice, vodka, orange juice, cinnamon sticks and the cinnamon simple syrup in a large punch bowl or pitcher. Stir well and refrigerate for a few hours.
Serve in a punch bowl or pitcher, adding the apple cider ice cubes and cranberries when ready.