Memorial Day weekend isn’t just a three-day excuse to fire up the grill—it’s the unofficial start of summer. The season of sunshine, flip-flops, and that first sip of something cold and boozy while you soak up the long weekend with friends. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, manning the BBQ, or just pretending you’re on a tropical vacation from your own backyard, these 11 cocktails are here to keep your glass full and your vibe high.
From a Classic Margarita to a Spicy Mexican Candy Shot that packs a punch, and a Jolly Rancher Shot that’s as fun as it sounds, there’s a drink for every kind of summer mood. Light, fruity, bold, or refreshing—shake, stir, or blend your way into the best weekend kickoff ever.
Let’s raise a glass to summer. (And maybe to a second round.) 🍹☀️
11 Memorial Day Cocktails to Kick Off Summer
1. NEW! Classic Margarita
A timeless favorite. Tequila, lime, and just the right amount of salt—because summer deserves a classic.
2. NEW! Spicy Mexican Candy Shot
Sweet, spicy, and a little wild—this tiny but mighty shot brings the heat and the fun. A rim of Tajîn seasoning makes this top-notch!
3. NEW! Layered Jolly Rancher Shot
Your favorite candy, now in boozy form. Bright, fruity layers make this one a total crowd-pleaser.+
4. How to Make a Cape Cod
Tart, refreshing, and effortlessly cool. Vodka and cranberry juice never go out of style.
5. Rose World Cocktail
A floral, citrusy dream that’s light, elegant, and perfect for sipping in the sunshine. Actual dried rose petals not required, but they add to the joie de vivre!
6. Aperol Spritz
The It Girl of start-of-summer cocktails. Bubbly, bittersweet, and made for golden-hour toasts.
7. Banana Rum Cocktail
Pretty sunset layers of grenadine, Coco Lopez, banana rum, and pineapple juice on the rocks; if a beach hammock had a flavor, this would be it.
8. Soju Cocktail
Smooth, slightly sweet, and way too easy to sip. If you haven’t tried soju yet, consider this your summer starter pack.
9. BlackPink Cocktail
Named after the all-girl K-pop band, this one is bold, bright, and totally Instagram-worthy. A striking combo of black vodka and grapefruit juice.
10. Spiced Rum Piña Colada Recipe
Have blender, will travel. A tropical escape in a glass. Creamy coconut, pineapple, and a little spiced kick to keep things interesting.
11. Lemon Vodka Cocktail
Summer in a glass—grownup-style lemonade that’s not too sweet, not too sour, but perfectly drinkable. (So drinkable; be careful with this one.)
The bottom line
And just like that, your summer sipping lineup is set. Whether you’re all about a Classic Margarita, craving a tropical Banana Rum Cocktail, or feeling adventurous with a Spicy Mexican Candy Shot, this list has a little something for every kind of celebration.
Memorial Day weekend is all about kicking back, soaking up the sun, and toasting to good times with great company. So grab your shaker, your blender, or just a really good glass—because the only thing standing between you and the perfect summer cocktail is a few ice cubes and a splash of something delicious.
Here’s to long weekends, sunny skies, and never running out of drinks. 🍹☀️
