There’s something about Memorial Day that calls for a proper drink in hand. It marks the unofficial start of summer, which means longer days, outdoor tables, and cocktails that lean refreshing, unfussy, and just a little celebratory. Think crisp, citrusy, maybe a touch of fizz, and ideally something you can make more than once without missing the party.
The best Memorial Day cocktails strike that balance between easy and impressive. They should work whether you’re hosting a full garden gathering or just putting your feet up with something cold and well made. From spritzes and highballs to classics that never let you down, these are the drinks that set the tone for the season ahead.
Before you start, it helps to have a few basic tools on hand. A simple jigger, a bar spoon, strainer, and a mixing glass and a shaker will cover most of what you need.
Lynchburg Lemonade
A favorite Jack Daniel's cocktail recipe combining Tennessee Whiskey and lemonade – one of the best combinations in the world!
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Sgroppino
Sgroppino is a classic Italian cocktail made with lemon sorbet, Prosecco, and a splash of vodka, creating a refreshing and frothy beverage.
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Aperol Spritz
Embrace the vibrant spirit of Italy with an Aperol Spritz. Revel in the effervescence of Prosecco and the bittersweet allure of Aperol for a refreshing and classic sip.
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Gin and Tonic
Create the classic Gin and Tonic cocktail with our simple recipe. Perfectly balanced, refreshing, and garnished to your liking.
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Tom Collins
The Tom Collins is a classic cocktail made with gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water, typically served over ice and garnished with a lemon slice and a cherry. It offers a refreshing and citrusy beverage experience.
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Pimm’s Cup
Craft the classic Pimm's Cup cocktail, a British summer favorite, blending Pimm's No. 1, lemonade, and fresh fruit for a refreshing sip.
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Mojito
The Mojito cocktail is among the most loved cocktails there are. It is super easy to make and such a refreshing drink. Mint and lime are the perfect combination for a hot day in summer.
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Watermelon Margarita Spritz
THE cocktail of the summer – watermelon, tequila and bubbles. What a combination!
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Strawberry Daiquiri
Made with fresh strawberries, the Strawberry Daiquiri recipe is a winner. It's not too sweet and with a lime wheel as garnish is so refreshing!
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Sparkling Paloma
Elevate your moments with a Sparkling Paloma featuring Fever-Tree. Embrace the refreshing blend of tequila, grapefruit, lime, and Fever-Tree Sparkling Grapefruit—a bubbly twist on a classic favorite.
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Kentucky Derby Mint Julep
This Mint Julep recipe comes to you directly from Kentucky. Serve it in a silver cup and don your hat – it's Kentucky Derby time!
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Moscow Mule
The easy classic recipe for the Moscow Mule is made with only three ingredients: vodka, ginger beer and lime. Don't forget to garnish with a slice of lime.
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Lime Rickey
Invigorate your senses with a Lime Rickey. This classic cocktail combines zesty lime, soda water, and a touch of sweetness, creating a crisp and revitalizing drink experience.
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Vodka Press
The Vodka Press is probably the most straightforward drink you can ever make. It's a no-fuss drink. Easy to make to enjoy on every occasion!
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Sea Breeze
Picture yourself lounging on a beach as the waves crash in the background. I know I would also be drinking the Sea Breeze cocktail!
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Sex on the Beach
It's hard for some to get over its provocative name, but the Sex on the Beach is not only a popular drink, but a classic cocktail as well.
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Tequila Sunrise
Learn how to make the classic Tequila Sunrise cocktail, featuring tequila, orange juice, and grenadine for a visually stunning and refreshing drink.
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Blue Hawaiian
Picture this: you're lounging on a pristine sandy beach, the gentle waves lapping at the shore, and a refreshing drink in hand that's as dazzling as the turquoise waters before you. If that sounds like a dream come true, then the Blue Hawaiian cocktail is your ticket to turning that dream into a reality!
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Piña Colada
The Piña Colada is the most popular cocktail on the web! This recipe will have you enjoying this pineapple & coconut cocktail in no time!
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Mai Thai
Lemongrass and ginger shake up the traditional Mai Tai in Montanya Rum's Mai Thai!
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Non-alcoholic seasn Margarita
Your non-alc Margarita with three dashes of seasn! A perfect cocktail for the summer seasn 😉 ahead!
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Everleaf Cosmopolitan
Indulge in the Everleaf Cosmopolitan—a non-alcoholic marvel. Experience the allure of cranberry, orange, and Everleaf, crafting a sophisticated, booze-free rendition of the classic cocktail.
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Memorial Day cocktails are less about showing off and more about setting the mood. A good drink in hand, something on the grill, and nowhere urgent to be tends to do the job nicely. The beauty of this lineup is that you can keep it simple or mix things up depending on the crowd, without losing that relaxed, early-summer feel.
If there’s a thread running through it all, it’s this: fresh flavors, easy builds, and drinks you actually want a second round of. Once you’ve found a favorite or two, you’re not just sorted for one long weekend, you’ve quietly built your go-to menu for the rest of summer.