Fireworks aren’t the only thing lighting up the sky this Independence Day; your cocktail lineup should be just as bold. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or gathering with friends for the big night, festive drinks are a must. These red, white, and blue cocktails are easy to make, visually striking, and guaranteed to impress. Here’s your go-to guide for celebrating the 4th with style and flavor.
Red, White & Blue Layered Cocktail
This stunning layered drink uses grenadine, lemonade, and blue curaçao to create a patriotic color trio.
Ingredients:
- 1 oz grenadine
- Ice
- 3 oz lemonade
- 1 oz vodka
- 1 oz blue curaçao
Fill a tall glass with ice. Pour in the grenadine and let it settle. In a measuring cup, mix the lemonade and vodka, then slowly pour over the back of a spoon. Finally, pour the blue curaçao gently over another spoon. The key is to pour slowly to keep each layer separate. Serve with a straw and let your guests stir if they choose.
Boozy Piña Colada Spritz
Ingredients:
- 2 oz white rum
- 1 oz coconut cream
- 1 oz pineapple juice
- Splash of club soda
- Ice
Shake the rum, coconut cream, and pineapple juice with ice. Strain into a glass over fresh ice and top with club soda for a light, fizzy finish. Ideal for poolside sipping.
Bomb Pop Martini
Ingredients:
- 1 oz vodka
- 1 oz blue curaçao
- 1 oz lemonade
- Sugar (for optional rim)
Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a martini glass. Rim the glass with sugar for extra flair. Inspired by a classic summer popsicle, this cocktail is both nostalgic and bold.
Blueberry Bourbon Smash
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1/4 cup fresh blueberries
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 1 oz lemon juice
- Fresh mint
Muddle blueberries and mint in a shaker. Add bourbon, simple syrup, and lemon juice. Shake with ice, strain into a rocks glass, and garnish with a sprig of mint and a few extra berries. A bold choice for bourbon lovers, with just the right summer twist.
Watermelon White Sangria
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle of white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1 cup watermelon cubes
- 1/2 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1/2 cup blueberries
- 1/4 cup orange liqueur
- Club soda
Combine all ingredients except soda in a large pitcher and refrigerate for 2–4 hours. Before serving, top with club soda for a refreshing sparkle. Serve in stemless wine glasses for a light, fruity option.
Strawberry Frosé
Ingredients:
- 1 bottle of rosé
- 1 cup frozen strawberries
- 2 oz vodka
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Ice
Blend all ingredients until smooth and slushy. Serve in stemless wine glasses and garnish with a fresh strawberry or lemon twist. This drink is fruity, refreshing, and perfect for hot July afternoons.
Make Your 4th Memorable
Looking to simplify your setup? Tri-State Liquors also carries a wide variety of ready-to-drink cocktails, spiked seltzers, and themed mixers so you can keep the celebration going without the prep.
Stop by early to stock up on everything you need for a safe, spirited, and unforgettable Fourth of July. With unbeatable prices and expert recommendations, Tri-State Liquors is your one-stop shop for patriotic party planning.