Summer Cocktail Recipes

Summer time by the pool is something that many of us look forward to year round. Especially when you work all week, or go to school, those days spent in a bathing suit, coated in sunscreen, sipping a summer cocktail, are the highlight of your week. In fact, what to sip by the pool is often your largest consideration. But, we’re here to help you make that decision a little bit easier. A summer cocktail should be light, delicious, and maybe even a little bit fruity. So, let’s get to it… 

Summer Cocktail Recipes: Light and Breezy by the Pool 

Blackberry Mojito 

My go-to summer cocktail is the brilliant, light, and tangy mojito— with a twist. A classic mojito is made with white rum, simple syrup, mint, lime, and club soda. It’s bright, to the point, and extremely refreshing on a hot day. Our only twist to an untouchable classic? Two blackberries in the shaker, and one to garnish. For this mojito, add two ounces of white rum, 3/4 ounce of homemade simple syrup (equal parts sugar and hot water, dissolve and let cool), 3/4 ounce fresh lime juice, 1 sprig of mint, and two blackberries. Shake, shake, shake— pour. Top your cocktail with soda water, a sprig of mint, lime wedge, and one more blackberry. 

Sangria Your Way 

Sangria can be made with a number of wines, a number of fruits, and a number of different additions that are personalized to you. My personal favorite is: one bottle of Spanish red, the juice from 1/2 of a lemon, lime, and orange, 2 ounces dry vermouth, 2 ounces of gin, 2 ounces of brandy, and slice the rest of the fruit into the mix. Let it sit in the fridge for at least an hour so the flavors develop. Then, before you serve, top with orange soda to taste. 

While red wine sangria is my favorite way to enjoy this summer cocktail— it doesn’t have to be yours. Sub red wine for white wine or rosé; limes and oranges for peaches and strawberries, and orange soda for grapefruit soda, seltzer, or Sprite. There are plenty of ways to make sangria your own— substitute ingredients to your hearts delight! Just don’t forget the wine… 

Rosemary Gin Lemonade 

One again, with this summer cocktail, we encourage you to try your own hand at changing it up. This one, however, is an easy one to throw together poolside. Add gin to taste, top with lemonade, and stir it up with a sprig of rosemary. Rosemary is sturdy, extremely fragrant, and insanely delicious with gin. Stirring your drink with the sprig alone will infuse the flavor perfectly. 

Every perfect summer cocktail has one thing in common… 

It helps you beat the heat by way of bright, fizzy, citrusy, and floral drinks that can go from day, to night, to poolside. As always, we encourage you to drink responsibly, as well as to find a safe and sober designated driver. 

Memorial Day Weekend: Fun & Safety

Memorial Day weekend is fast approaching. This is a time to reflect on the sacrifices made by men and women in our armed services. However, for many, it is also a time to throw an annual barbecue, lake day, or party with friends. In short, Memorial Day weekend is usually stocked full with booze, buddies, and good times. While we encourage everyone to celebrate in their own way, and to haver fun doing it— we also encourage you to do so safely. So, what things can you do to make sure you’re enjoying your Memorial Day weekend and staying safe while you do it? 

Memorial Day Weekend: Fun in the Sun… Safely 

You know you’ll be drinking, so choose wisely 

The smartest way to drink through your Memorial Day weekend is to choose an easy drinking beer. Sure, mixed drinks and punch bowls might sound appealing, but liquor isn’t exactly the smartest choice if you want longevity. There are plenty of light, yet tasty brews to choose from that will still do the job— but a bit more slowly than that vodka and orange juice. Keep in mind— longevity is key. 

Water is your best friend 

Depending on your chosen activities, you might be out in the sun for long hours. Whether that be by the pool, in a boat, or in the backyard. No matter your position, when you’re in the sun for a long period of time— you need to stay hydrated. Better yet, when you’re planning to drink for a prolonged period of time, water is the key to staying safe, hydrated, and avoiding a nasty hangover later. So, for every two drinks— have a glass of water. Keep yourself hydrated. I guarantee: it won’t harsh your buzz… 

Sunscreen

As another jumping off point for being in the sun for long periods of time: protect your skin! Sunscreen is something that often slips our minds when we’re drinking and hanging out. After all, the sun feels great, we’re drinking with friends, and it might be hard fought to consider taking a moment to lather up. However, alcohol makes you more likely to burn and to forget your sunscreen. So, on this coming Memorial Day weekend, set a reminder in your phone!

We wish you the very best Memorial Day weekend, and a successful celebration with friends. But, we encourage that you do so safely. Hire a DD, call a taxi, drink some water, and lather up with sunscreen. There’s not much to it— but these things can go quite a long way. 

Cinco de Mayo Events: Making the Most of Your Holiday Weekend

A most of us know, Cinco de Mayo is on a Sunday this year. For that reason, many of us might find ourselves celebrating the day, well, all weekend. Good news for many of us living here in the QC, is that there are plenty of free events between Saturday and Sunday that will help you celebrate the holiday, have some fun, and save a few dollars along the way. As always, we encourage you to drink smart, avoid driving if you plan to drink, and have fun. After all, Cinco de Mayo only comes around once a year… 

Cinco de Mayo Events: Drinking Smart and Saving Money

Saturday:

Most of the Cinco de Mayo events are happening on the actual day, Sunday. However, one notable event is the Cinco de Mayo fiesta going down at Sycamore Brewing company. The event is going on from 12:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., features free music, and two Mexican food trucks— along with a few others. 

Sunday:

As we’ve mentioned, there is a lot more going on during the actual day. From festivals, to parades, meal specials, and free treats— there is plenty to do that ranges from family-friendly, to adults-only fun. 

You can start your day with the Cinco de Mayo Front Porch Sundays market. There will be live music, food trucks, holiday-themed beers, free boot camp, and a farmer’s market set up. Then, there is also a party at Pilot brewing, along with a new beer release. 

Hot Taco is also throwing a block party to celebrate the occasion. This is a free event to get into, although drinks and food are not included. They will have frozen margaritas, live music, Mexican food, and access to the other bars on that same strip. This event will not be quite as family friendly as your Front Porch Sunday. However, it’s a great way to celebrate the occasion and have some fun before the work week goes into full effect. 

Lastly, QC Social Lounge is throwing a Cinco de Mayo weekend party during the day on Saturday. However, make sure that you RSVP to secure your spot. The process is quick, easy, and there are paid, upgraded options if you’re willing to pay additional. 

In short, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your holiday weekend 

From frozen margaritas, to Mexican foods, and beyond— there are plenty of options for celebrating in style with friends, family, or both. We wish you a happy weekend, a safe one, and we encourage you to drive safe.