Raise a glass to sunshine, good company, and a long weekend! Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start to summer, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with drinks that feel just as vibrant as the season ahead. Whether you're grilling out, lounging poolside, or hosting a backyard gathering, these fun and refreshing drinks bring the flavor—and the fun.
Here are some festive favorites (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) to help you sip into summer.
1. Red, White & Blueberry Sangria
A colorful twist on a crowd-pleaser. Light, fruity, and bursting with flair, this sangria is perfect for sharing.
You’ll need:
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1 bottle of white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
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1/2 cup vodka (optional)
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1/4 cup orange liqueur
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1/4 cup simple syrup
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1 cup sliced strawberries
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1 cup blueberries
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1 apple, diced (for the “white”)
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Ice + sparkling water to top
To make: Mix all ingredients (except sparkling water) in a pitcher and chill for 2–3 hours. Top with a splash of sparkling water just before serving. Serve over ice in a stemless wine glass or tumbler.
2. Spiked (or Not!) Lemonade Bar
A customizable favorite for all ages. Set up a DIY lemonade station with fresh add-ins and optional spirits. It’s interactive, easy, and perfect for a crowd.
Base lemonade:
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6–8 lemons, juiced
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1/2 cup sugar (or to taste)
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4–5 cups cold water
Add-in ideas:
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Fresh mint
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Berries (muddled or whole)
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Peach or mango puree
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Vodka, bourbon, or gin (on the side)
Let guests build their own flavor combos. Serve in mason jars or tall iced tea glasses for a charming look.
3. Pineapple Jalapeño Cooler
Sweet. Spicy. Totally unexpected. This bold refresher pairs the tropical sweetness of pineapple with a subtle jalapeño kick.
You’ll need:
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2 oz tequila or rum
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4 oz pineapple juice
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1 oz lime juice
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1–2 slices of jalapeño
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Ice + club soda
To make: Muddle jalapeño with lime juice in a shaker. Add pineapple juice, spirit, and ice. Shake, strain over ice, and top with club soda. Garnish with a pineapple wedge or extra jalapeño slice for drama.
4. Frozen Watermelon Slush
A blender-friendly summer staple. Perfect for hot afternoons and lazy deck days.
You’ll need:
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4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed and frozen
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Juice of 1 lime
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2 oz vodka or rum (optional)
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1–2 tbsp agave or honey (optional)
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Mint leaves for garnish
To make: Blend everything until smooth. Pour into chilled glasses and garnish with mint or a lime wedge. No alcohol? Skip the spirit and blend with coconut water or lemonade instead.
5. Berry Fizz Mocktail
Bright, bubbly, and booze-free. For guests of all ages, this mocktail delivers on taste without the buzz.
You’ll need:
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1/2 cup mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
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1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
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1 oz lemon juice
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Sparkling water
To make: Muddle berries with lemon juice and sweetener. Strain into a glass, add ice, and top with sparkling water. Stir gently and serve with a sprig of thyme or mint.
Celebrate the Kickoff to Summer
Whether you're going all-out with red, white, and blue or keeping it cool with tropical flavors, Memorial Day drinks are all about making the most of the long weekend. Serve them with grilled eats, good vibes, and a whole lot of sunshine. Cheers!
