23+ Delicious Summer BBQ Drink Recipes to Impress Your Guests

Summer BBQs are all about good company, great food, and, of course, refreshing drinks that keep everyone cool as the grill sizzles away.

Whether you’re hosting a laid-back backyard cookout or an upscale outdoor gathering, having a variety of delicious and creative drinks on hand is key to elevating the atmosphere.

From sweet fruity cocktails to light and herbal refreshers, there’s a summer BBQ drink recipe for everyone.

In this post, we’ve compiled over 23+ drink recipes to keep your guests hydrated, refreshed, and coming back for more.

Whether you prefer a tropical twist, a classic cocktail, or an alcohol-free option, you’ll find the perfect beverage to complement your BBQ feast.

Let’s dive into these crowd-pleasing drinks that will not only quench your thirst but also add a little extra sparkle to your summer celebration.

23+ Delicious Summer BBQ Drink Recipes to Impress Your Guests

With so many delicious summer BBQ drink recipes to choose from, you’ll never run out of refreshing options for your next cookout.

Whether you’re mixing up cocktails for the adults or offering mocktail versions for the kids, these drinks are guaranteed to impress and keep everyone feeling cool and satisfied.

From fruity concoctions to herbal infusions, each recipe adds a unique touch to your summer gathering.

So, fire up the grill, pour a cold drink, and enjoy the sun with friends and family.

These 23+ summer BBQ drink recipes are sure to become a staple at all your future summer parties.

Citrus Bourbon Smash

A bold yet refreshing cocktail that blends the smoky depth of bourbon with the brightness of fresh citrus.

Perfect for those who enjoy a little kick with their summer sipping, this drink balances sweet, sour, and strong in one delicious glass.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 0.75 oz simple syrup
• 2 orange slices
• Fresh mint leaves
• Club soda
• Ice

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, muddle the orange slices and mint leaves with the lemon juice and simple syrup.
2. Add the bourbon and a handful of ice. Shake well.
3. Strain into a glass filled with ice and top with club soda.
4. Garnish with a sprig of mint and an orange twist.

This cocktail is a fantastic way to add sophistication to your BBQ lineup.

The citrus lifts the drink while the bourbon grounds it, making it equally refreshing and robust for a long afternoon by the grill.

Pineapple Jalapeño Cooler

This spicy-sweet mocktail (or cocktail if you choose to spike it) is the ultimate way to bring some tropical flair to your backyard BBQ.

The combination of fresh pineapple juice and jalapeño heat offers a fun, flavorful twist that keeps guests coming back for more.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh pineapple juice
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 0.5 oz honey syrup (equal parts honey and water)
• 2 slices fresh jalapeño (adjust to taste)
• Sparkling water
• Ice
• Optional: 1 oz tequila or vodka

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, muddle the jalapeño slices with honey syrup and lime juice.
2. Add pineapple juice and shake with ice.
3. Strain into a tall glass over fresh ice.
4. Top with sparkling water and stir gently.
5. Garnish with a pineapple wedge and jalapeño ring.

This drink is a crowd-pleaser with a little something for everyone.

The spice from the jalapeño pairs beautifully with sweet pineapple and bubbly fizz, creating a drink that’s both exotic and energizing.

Watermelon Basil Fizz

Light, herbal, and ultra-hydrating, this Watermelon Basil Fizz is a summer staple that feels like sunshine in a glass.

With fresh watermelon and aromatic basil, it’s a non-alcoholic refreshment that can easily be spiked if desired.

Ingredients:

• 1.5 cups cubed watermelon
• 4-5 fresh basil leaves
• 1 oz lime juice
• 0.5 oz agave nectar (or to taste)
• Sparkling water
• Ice
• Optional: 1 oz gin or vodka

Instructions:

1. In a blender, puree the watermelon until smooth. Strain to remove pulp if preferred.
2. In a shaker, gently muddle the basil with lime juice and agave nectar.
3. Add the watermelon juice and shake with ice.
4. Strain into a glass over ice and top with sparkling water.
5. Garnish with a basil leaf and a tiny wedge of watermelon.

This drink is pure summer bliss. It’s hydrating, flavorful, and the kind of drink that cools you down without weighing you down.

Whether you serve it as a mocktail or with a splash of booze, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.

Blackberry Thyme Sparkler

A sophisticated blend of fresh berries, herbs, and fizz, this Blackberry Thyme Sparkler is a stunning and flavorful drink that feels both rustic and elegant.

It’s a great way to showcase seasonal ingredients and impress your BBQ guests with something a little unexpected.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup fresh blackberries
• 1 oz lemon juice
• 0.75 oz thyme simple syrup (1:1 sugar and water simmered with thyme sprigs)
• Sparkling wine or sparkling water
• Ice
• Thyme sprig and a few blackberries for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, muddle the blackberries with lemon juice and thyme syrup.
2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake gently.
3. Double strain into a champagne flute or wine glass.
4. Top with chilled sparkling wine or sparkling water.
5. Garnish with a thyme sprig and a few whole berries.

This drink is perfect for those who love a refreshing beverage that’s not too sweet.

The thyme adds a hint of earthiness while the berries bring natural tartness, making this sparkler a refined companion to grilled fare.

Coconut Mojito Slush

This frozen twist on a classic mojito brings island vibes to your BBQ.

Creamy coconut and fresh mint come together in a tropical, icy blend that cools you down and perks up your palate—ideal for hot afternoons under the sun.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz white rum
• 1 oz coconut cream
• 1 oz lime juice
• 0.5 oz simple syrup
• Handful of mint leaves
• 1 cup ice
• Optional: toasted coconut flakes for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the rum, coconut cream, lime juice, simple syrup, mint, and ice.
2. Blend until smooth and slushy.
3. Pour into a chilled glass and garnish with mint leaves and a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes.

This frozen cocktail is the ultimate tropical indulgence.

It’s creamy, minty, and perfectly sweet—just the thing to sip as you flip burgers or lounge in the shade.

Strawberry Basil Lemonade

A vibrant homemade lemonade that pairs the sweetness of strawberries with the herbal notes of fresh basil.

This drink is delightfully refreshing and can easily be batched for a crowd, making it a BBQ essential for guests of all ages.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
• 3 tbsp honey or sugar (to taste)
• 4-5 basil leaves
• 2 cups cold water
• Ice
• Lemon slices and strawberry for garnish

Instructions:

1. Muddle strawberries and basil in a pitcher or shaker with the lemon juice and sweetener.
2. Add water and stir well to combine.
3. Strain if desired for a smoother drink.
4. Serve over ice and garnish with a lemon wheel and a fresh strawberry.

This lemonade is bursting with real fruit flavor and herbal freshness.

Whether you keep it alcohol-free or add a splash of vodka for the adults, it’s a BBQ staple that’s bright, colorful, and always crowd-pleasing.

Spicy Mango Margarita

For those who love a sweet and spicy twist on a classic, this Spicy Mango Margarita is the perfect addition to your BBQ spread.

The juicy mango pairs wonderfully with the zing of lime and the heat of jalapeño, creating a flavor explosion that’ll keep your guests coming back for more.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz tequila
• 1 oz triple sec
• 2 oz fresh mango puree (or mango nectar)
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 2-3 slices fresh jalapeño (adjust for spice level)
• Salt or chili powder for rimming the glass
• Ice

Instructions:

1. Rim your glass with lime juice and dip in salt or chili powder.
2. In a shaker, muddle the jalapeño slices with lime juice and mango puree.
3. Add tequila, triple sec, and ice. Shake well.
4. Strain into the prepared glass filled with ice.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge and a slice of jalapeño for an extra kick.

This vibrant, spicy drink brings the heat and sweet, making it an exciting choice for summer BBQs.

The sweetness of mango pairs perfectly with the bite of jalapeño, and it’s all balanced by the crispness of tequila. It’s a bold and flavorful drink that’s sure to stand out!

Lemon-Basil Iced Tea

A refreshing and herbaceous twist on classic iced tea, the Lemon-Basil Iced Tea is a calming yet invigorating drink to enjoy between bites of grilled food.

The combination of lemon and basil creates a bright and fragrant concoction that’s perfect for sipping all afternoon long.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups brewed black tea (cooled)
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1-2 tbsp honey or sugar (to taste)
• 5-6 basil leaves
• Ice
• Lemon slices for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a pitcher, combine the brewed tea, lemon juice, and sweetener. Stir until the sugar or honey dissolves.
2. Gently muddle the basil leaves in a separate container to release their aroma and flavor.
3. Add the muddled basil to the tea mixture, stir, and let it steep for about 5-10 minutes.
4. Strain out the basil leaves and chill the tea.
5. Serve over ice with lemon slices for garnish.

This iced tea is the perfect blend of refreshing and aromatic.

The herbal notes from the basil complement the tartness of the lemon, making it a revitalizing drink that’s perfect for those sunny days spent outdoors. It’s both soothing and invigorating, a true summer staple!

Peach Bourbon Lemonade

A sweet and tangy cocktail that mixes the juicy flavor of ripe peaches with the smoky warmth of bourbon, Peach Bourbon Lemonade is a delightful drink to enjoy at any BBQ.

It’s a balanced drink with both sweet and bold notes, making it a hit at summer gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1 oz peach puree (or peach nectar)
• 0.75 oz honey or simple syrup
• Ice
• Fresh peach slices for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, combine bourbon, lemon juice, peach puree, and sweetener.
2. Add ice and shake well to chill.
3. Strain into a glass filled with ice.
4. Garnish with fresh peach slices and a sprig of mint if desired.

This drink offers a delightful combination of smoky, tart, and fruity flavors.

The peach and bourbon come together beautifully, while the lemonade adds a refreshing citrus zing. It’s the perfect cocktail to serve alongside grilled meats, making your BBQ even more memorable.

Raspberry Lemon Fizz

This vibrant and tangy drink combines the sweet-tart flavors of fresh raspberries with the zesty punch of lemon, all topped off with a bubbly fizz.

It’s a light and refreshing drink that’s ideal for summer BBQs when you’re looking for something both sweet and sparkling.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1 oz simple syrup
• 2 oz sparkling water
• Ice
• Lemon wheel and fresh raspberries for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, muddle the raspberries with lemon juice and simple syrup.
2. Add ice and shake well.
3. Strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice.
4. Top with sparkling water and stir gently.
5. Garnish with a lemon wheel and a few raspberries.

This Raspberry Lemon Fizz is a delightfully tangy drink with a pop of color.

The fizzy bubbles elevate the refreshing combination of berries and lemon, making it the perfect drink to serve while you enjoy the summer sun and your BBQ spread.

Tropical Sangria

This fruity and tropical sangria offers an irresistible combination of tropical fruits, citrus, and a splash of rum, making it an ideal drink for a summer BBQ.

It’s perfect for serving in a large pitcher and letting guests pour themselves a refreshing glass all evening long.

Ingredients:

• 1 bottle white wine (Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio)
• 1/4 cup white rum
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice
• 1/2 cup sliced strawberries
• 1/2 cup chopped pineapple
• 1/2 orange, thinly sliced
• 1 lime, thinly sliced
• Ice

Instructions:

1. In a large pitcher, combine the white wine, rum, orange juice, and pineapple juice.
2. Add the sliced strawberries, pineapple, orange, and lime.
3. Stir well and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is even better).
4. Serve over ice and garnish with additional fruit slices.

Tropical Sangria is the perfect way to turn your BBQ into a party.

The blend of citrus, pineapple, and berries brings an island vibe to the gathering, while the rum adds a fun kick. It’s an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing drink that can be enjoyed by all.

Cucumber Mint Cooler

This crisp and cooling drink is ideal for hot summer days, offering a refreshing combination of cucumber and mint. It’s light, hydrating, and the perfect way to balance out the smoky flavors from the BBQ.

This can be served as a non-alcoholic option or spiked with gin for a little extra fun.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cucumber, sliced
• 8-10 fresh mint leaves
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz agave syrup (or simple syrup)
• 2 oz gin (optional)
• 2 oz sparkling water
• Ice
• Cucumber slices and mint for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, muddle the cucumber slices and mint leaves.
2. Add lime juice, agave syrup, and gin (if using), and shake with ice.
3. Strain into a glass filled with ice.
4. Top with sparkling water and stir gently.
5. Garnish with additional cucumber slices and fresh mint leaves.

The Cucumber Mint Cooler is ultra-refreshing and perfect for sipping as you enjoy the outdoors. The combination of cucumber and mint is cooling, while the lime adds a bright citrusy twist.

The gin brings depth to the flavor, but it’s just as delightful without it!

Kiwi Mojito

This vibrant and tangy take on the classic mojito adds the tropical goodness of kiwi, creating a refreshing and exotic drink that will be the star of your BBQ.

The combination of mint, lime, and kiwi is both invigorating and soothing, perfect for sipping in the sun.

Ingredients:

• 2 ripe kiwis, peeled and mashed
• 10-12 fresh mint leaves
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz simple syrup
• 2 oz white rum
• Club soda
• Ice
• Lime wedges and mint sprigs for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, muddle the mashed kiwi, mint leaves, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add rum and ice, then shake vigorously.
3. Strain into a tall glass filled with ice.
4. Top with club soda and stir gently.
5. Garnish with a lime wedge and a sprig of mint.

The Kiwi Mojito offers a sweet, tangy, and minty twist on a beloved classic.

The kiwi adds a unique fruitiness that pairs beautifully with the fresh lime and mint, making it a delicious and tropical addition to your BBQ.

Strawberry Coconut Cooler

A cool and creamy treat for your guests, the Strawberry Coconut Cooler combines the fresh sweetness of strawberries with the tropical richness of coconut.

This drink can be served as a non-alcoholic mocktail or spiked with rum for an added kick, offering the best of both worlds.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled
• 1/2 cup coconut water
• 1 oz coconut cream
• 1 oz lime juice
• 1 oz simple syrup
• Ice
• Fresh strawberry for garnish
• Optional: 1 oz white rum

Instructions:

1. In a blender, combine the strawberries, coconut water, coconut cream, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add ice and blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Pour into a glass and garnish with a fresh strawberry.
4. For an alcoholic version, add white rum and blend again.

This drink is a tropical indulgence, combining the creamy richness of coconut with the light, refreshing taste of strawberries.

Whether you keep it alcohol-free or add rum, it’s sure to be a favorite at your summer BBQ!

Watermelon Cucumber Spritz

This light, hydrating spritz is the perfect drink for those looking for something refreshing and cooling.

The combination of watermelon and cucumber is both hydrating and revitalizing, and the addition of sparkling wine or water makes it a bubbly, festive option for any BBQ.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups watermelon, cubed
• 1/2 cucumber, sliced
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 1 oz agave syrup (or simple syrup)
• Sparkling wine or sparkling water
• Ice
• Lime wedges and cucumber slices for garnish

Instructions:

1. Blend the watermelon and cucumber together until smooth, then strain to remove the pulp.
2. In a shaker, combine the strained juice with lime juice and agave syrup.
3. Shake with ice and strain into a glass filled with ice.
4. Top with sparkling wine or sparkling water and stir gently.
5. Garnish with lime wedges and cucumber slices.

The Watermelon Cucumber Spritz is light, hydrating, and full of flavor. It’s a perfectly refreshing drink to enjoy alongside your BBQ, providing a crisp and fruity contrast to the savory grilled foods.

The bubbles add a celebratory touch, making it a drink that’s both cooling and festive.

Orange-Lavender Lemonade

This unique twist on classic lemonade adds the delicate fragrance of lavender and the bright, tangy flavor of orange.

It’s a refreshing and sophisticated drink that’s perfect for those looking for something a little more elegant while still feeling like summer.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 2 tbsp lavender syrup (or homemade lavender simple syrup)
• 2 tbsp honey or sugar (to taste)
• 3 cups cold water
• Ice
• Orange slices and lavender sprigs for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a pitcher, combine the lemon juice, orange juice, lavender syrup, and honey or sugar. Stir until the sweetener dissolves.
2. Add the cold water and stir well to combine.
3. Fill glasses with ice and pour the lemonade over.
4. Garnish with orange slices and a sprig of lavender.

This drink is both aromatic and flavorful, with the floral notes of lavender beautifully balancing the citrusy tartness of the lemon and orange.

It’s perfect for a summer BBQ when you want something that’s light, refreshing, and just a little fancy.

Black Cherry Mojito

A bold and fruity twist on the classic mojito, the Black Cherry Mojito combines the sweetness of ripe cherries with the classic minty freshness of a mojito.

It’s a fun and flavorful cocktail that’s perfect for enjoying on a warm summer afternoon.

Ingredients:

• 6-8 fresh black cherries, pitted
• 8-10 fresh mint leaves
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 0.5 oz simple syrup
• 2 oz white rum
• Club soda
• Ice
• Mint sprig and cherry for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, muddle the black cherries, mint leaves, lime juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add rum and ice, then shake vigorously.
3. Strain into a glass filled with ice.
4. Top with club soda and stir gently.
5. Garnish with a mint sprig and a cherry.

The Black Cherry Mojito is a refreshing, fruity, and slightly tart drink that packs a punch with its burst of black cherry flavor.

It’s the perfect summer cocktail to sip while grilling or relaxing with friends, offering a delightful balance of mint and fruit.

Ginger Peach Iced Tea

This flavorful iced tea combines the sweetness of peaches with the warming spice of ginger, making it a perfect drink to complement the smoky flavors of grilled foods.

It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a more complex, layered beverage that still has that refreshing iced tea vibe.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups brewed black tea (cooled)
• 1/2 cup fresh peach puree
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger (or ginger syrup)
• 1-2 tbsp honey or sugar (to taste)
• Ice
• Peach slices and mint for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a pitcher, combine the brewed tea, peach puree, lemon juice, ginger, and sweetener. Stir until the sugar or honey dissolves.
2. Refrigerate for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Serve over ice and garnish with fresh peach slices and a sprig of mint.

The Ginger Peach Iced Tea is a perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and refreshing.

The ginger adds a warming touch to the coolness of the peach and tea, making this drink an intriguing choice for your BBQ. It’s both soothing and energizing, the perfect beverage for a hot summer day.

Pineapple Cilantro Cooler

This tangy, herbaceous drink is a tropical delight, with the sweetness of pineapple and the freshness of cilantro coming together for a unique and refreshing BBQ beverage.

The addition of lime and a hint of sweetness makes it the perfect balance of flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh pineapple juice
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 0.5 oz simple syrup
• 4-5 cilantro leaves
• 2 oz silver rum (optional)
• Club soda
• Ice
• Pineapple slice and cilantro sprig for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, muddle the cilantro leaves with lime juice and simple syrup.
2. Add the pineapple juice and rum (if using), then shake with ice.
3. Strain into a glass filled with ice.
4. Top with club soda and stir gently.
5. Garnish with a pineapple slice and cilantro sprig.

The Pineapple Cilantro Cooler is a unique, refreshing drink that brings tropical flavors together with the herbaceous note of cilantro.

It’s light, tangy, and full of flavor—ideal for sipping by the grill as you enjoy your BBQ feast.

Blackberry Sage Smash

This flavorful, herb-infused cocktail combines the deep sweetness of blackberries with the earthy, aromatic taste of fresh sage.

The result is a sophisticated and delicious drink that will elevate your BBQ to a whole new level.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup fresh blackberries
• 5-6 fresh sage leaves
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1 oz simple syrup
• 2 oz gin
• Club soda
• Ice
• Sage sprig and blackberries for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, muddle the blackberries and sage leaves with lemon juice and simple syrup.
2. Add gin and ice, then shake well.
3. Strain into a glass filled with ice.
4. Top with club soda and stir gently.
5. Garnish with a sprig of sage and a few blackberries.

The Blackberry Sage Smash is a refreshing, herb-forward cocktail that’s perfect for a summer BBQ.

The sage adds an unexpected twist to the usual fruit-based drinks, and the blackberries provide a rich sweetness that pairs perfectly with the gin.

Lemon-Blueberry Iced Tea Fizz

A fizzy and refreshing twist on classic iced tea, the Lemon-Blueberry Iced Tea Fizz is a sparkling, fruity drink that’s perfect for cooling down during a summer BBQ.

The tangy lemon and sweet blueberries come together for a vibrant, bubbly beverage that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups brewed black tea (cooled)
• 1/2 cup fresh blueberries
• 1 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1 tbsp honey or simple syrup
• Sparkling water or club soda
• Ice
• Lemon slices and blueberries for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a pitcher, combine the brewed tea, lemon juice, and honey or simple syrup. Stir until the sweetener dissolves.
2. Gently muddle the blueberries in a separate container to release their juices, then add to the pitcher.
3. Stir to combine, and refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Serve over ice and top with sparkling water or club soda.
5. Garnish with lemon slices and a few fresh blueberries.

The Lemon-Blueberry Iced Tea Fizz is a perfect balance of tart and sweet, with the fizzy bubbles adding an exciting effervescence to the drink.

It’s light, refreshing, and perfect for sipping as you enjoy your BBQ.