Inauguration Day is a momentous occasion in American politics, a day when the country comes together to witness the peaceful transfer of power from one administration to another.
It is a day when history is made and traditions are upheld. It is also a day when people like to celebrate with a drink in hand.
As a bartender, I have seen my fair share of Inauguration Day celebrations. Some are somber affairs, while others are raucous parties.
But no matter what the mood, there is always a need for a good cocktail. That's why I have put together this list of the best Inauguration Day Cocktail recipes.
Now, I know what you're thinking. "What do cocktails have to do with politics?" Well, the truth is, cocktails have been a part of American politics for a long time.
From the Mint Julep, which is the official drink of the Kentucky Derby and a favorite of politicians on both sides of the aisle, to the Martini, which was famously enjoyed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, cocktails have played a role in shaping political culture.
So, whether you're watching the Inauguration from home or attending a party, why not raise a glass to democracy with one of these delicious cocktails?
From classic drinks like the Old Fashioned to modern twists like the Blueberry Lavender Collins, there is something for everyone on this list. So, let's get mixing!
1. Brunch Margaritas
Looking for a versatile and delicious cocktail to enjoy during your Inauguration Day celebration? Look no further than the Brunch Margarita! This cocktail is perfect for any occasion, whether you're enjoying a casual brunch at home or hosting a baby shower or family reunion.
The recipe can be easily adapted to be a mocktail or a cocktail, making it a drink that everyone can enjoy. The combination of homemade margarita mix, orange juice, grapefruit juice, and tequila creates a refreshing and flavorful beverage that is sure to please. So why not raise a glass and toast to the future with a Brunch Margarita in hand?
2. Red White and Blue Chocolate Martini
The "Red White and Blue Chocolate Martini" is a perfect cocktail for those who want to celebrate patriotic holidays in style. This cocktail is a delicious blend of chocolate and vodka, with a beautiful red, white, and blue color scheme that makes it perfect for any American-themed event. The cocktail is easy to make and is sure to impress your guests with its unique taste and stunning presentation.
Whether you're celebrating Memorial Day, the 4th of July, or any other patriotic holiday, the "Red White and Blue Chocolate Martini" is a must-try cocktail that will leave your taste buds wanting more. So, if you're looking for a delicious and festive drink to serve at your next party, be sure to give this cocktail a try!
3. Patriotic Mimosa
Looking for a fun and festive cocktail to celebrate Inauguration Day? Look no further than the Patriotic Mimosa! This cocktail is perfect for any patriotic occasion, with its beautiful blue color and fruity flavor.
Made with Blue Curacao liqueur, bubbles (champagne or Prosecco), and lemonade (or pineapple or orange juice), this drink is easy to customize to your taste preferences. Top it off with some strawberries or cherries for a fun garnish. Whether you're celebrating with a big group or just enjoying a quiet night in, the Patriotic Mimosa is sure to be a hit.
4. Red White and Blue Slushy Cocktail
The Red White and Blue Slushy Cocktail is a perfect way to celebrate Inauguration Day with a patriotic twist. This refreshing cocktail is a blend of citrus, blue raspberry, and cherry flavors, making it a perfect combination of sweet and tangy.
The cocktail is layered with red, white, and blue colors, which makes it visually appealing and perfect for any patriotic event. The cocktail can be prepared in advance and stored in the freezer until ready to serve. If you're looking for a fun and refreshing cocktail to celebrate Inauguration Day, the Red White and Blue Slushy Cocktail is a perfect choice.
5. Red, White and Blue White Wine Sangria
Looking for a fun and patriotic cocktail to serve on Inauguration Day? Look no further than the Red, White and Blue White Wine Sangria. This delicious and refreshing sangria is perfect for any patriotic holiday, and is sure to impress your guests.
Made with white wine and a mix of red and blue fruits, this cocktail is both beautiful and delicious. Whether you're celebrating with friends or just enjoying a quiet evening at home, the Red, White and Blue White Wine Sangria is the perfect way to toast to a new beginning. So why not give it a try and see for yourself?
6. Champagne Punch
Looking for a celebratory cocktail to toast to the new administration on Inauguration Day? Look no further than Champagne Punch! This delicious cocktail is the perfect combination of sparkling wine, pineapple, strawberry, and orange flavors, making it a refreshing and tasty option for any party or celebration.
Whether you're hosting a virtual watch party or a small gathering with friends and family, Champagne Punch is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it's easy to make ahead in a large batch, so you can spend more time enjoying the festivities and less time mixing drinks. So why not add a little sparkle to your Inauguration Day celebration with this delicious and festive cocktail?
7. Raspberry Lychee Sorbet Champagne Floats
The Raspberry Lychee Sorbet Champagne Floats is a unique and refreshing cocktail that doubles as a dessert. It features a tangy sweet sorbet made from pureed lychees and raspberries, with a hint of floral notes from rosewater.
The sorbet is served in a champagne glass and topped with bubbly champagne for a luxurious and grown-up float. Each spoonful is a perfect blend of tartness and sweetness that slowly melts into the champagne, making it a truly extraordinary partnership of tastes.
8. Red White and Blue Layered Cocktail
Looking for a patriotic cocktail to sip on Inauguration Day? Look no further than the Red White and Blue Layered Cocktail. This stunning drink features distinct layers of red grenadine, white vodka and lemonade, and blue curacao. The layers are created by carefully pouring each liquid over the back of a spoon, creating a crisp division of colors.
The result is a visually stunning cocktail that is perfect for any summer party or patriotic celebration. Not only does it look great, but it also tastes delicious with a nice mix of sweet and tart flavors. Impress your guests with your mixology skills and serve up this beautiful and tasty Red White and Blue Layered Cocktail.
9. Sunrise Mimosa
Looking for a refreshing and colorful cocktail to celebrate Inauguration Day? Look no further than the Sunrise Mimosa. This delightful beverage is perfect for pairing with weekend brunch or any other occasion that calls for a bubbly, citrusy drink. Made with orange juice, champagne, and a splash of grenadine, the Sunrise Mimosa has a crisp taste with a nice balance of sweetness and tartness.
What sets this cocktail apart is its beautiful ombré coloring, going from red to orange, reminiscent of a beautiful sunrise. The grenadine adds just the right touch of tartness and is the ingredient that gives this cocktail its stunning appearance. Whether you're celebrating a new administration or just looking for a delicious brunch cocktail, the Sunrise Mimosa is sure to impress.
10. Spiced Apple Rum Punch
Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail to celebrate Inauguration Day? Look no further than the Spiced Apple Rum Punch! This fall-inspired cocktail features Bundaberg Spiced Ginger Beer, unfiltered apple juice, and light rum, all mixed together for a deep and complex taste that's perfect for any occasion.
Served over ice with slices of apple and in a festive Mason Jar Dispenser, this cocktail is sure to be a hit at any party or gathering. So why not spice up your Inauguration Day celebrations with this delicious and festive cocktail?
11. Blood Orange Prosecco Punch
The Blood Orange Prosecco Punch is a beautiful and delicious cocktail that is perfect for Inauguration Day celebrations. The cocktail features the stunning reddish-orange color of blood oranges and has a little extra kick from the Grand Marnier "floater".
This cocktail is a great twist on the classic mimosa and is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a brunch with friends or a romantic breakfast in bed. The Blood Orange Prosecco Punch is a must-try cocktail for anyone who loves a good mimosa and wants to add a little extra flavor to their drink.
12. Grumpy Old Man
Looking for a cocktail that will help you unwind after a stressful day? Look no further than the Grumpy Old Man. This cocktail combines the flavors of bourbon, ginger ale, and lime juice to create a perfectly balanced drink that's sure to please any bourbon lover.
The bourbon adds a nice depth of flavor without overwhelming the other ingredients, and the ginger ale and lime juice provide a refreshing finish. Whether you're enjoying it with a meal or as a standalone drink, the Grumpy Old Man is a great choice for anyone looking for a tasty and relaxing cocktail. So why not give it a try and see for yourself?
13. Iced Whiskey Coffees
Looking for a unique and exciting cocktail to celebrate Inauguration Day? Look no further than the Iced Whiskey Coffee! This deliciously cold treat combines your favorite cold brew coffee with a touch of sweetness from brown sugar whiskey syrup and a shot of Knob Creek Reserve whiskey.
Topped off with a dollop of coconut whipped cream, this cocktail is perfect for a weekend brunch or a party with friends. Whether you're a coffee lover or a whiskey aficionado, the Iced Whiskey Coffee is sure to please. So why not raise a glass and toast to the new administration with this tasty and refreshing cocktail?
14. Cranberry Orange Mocktail
Looking for a refreshing and light cocktail to celebrate Inauguration Day? Look no further than the Cranberry Orange Mocktail. This non-alcoholic drink is the perfect accompaniment for brunch or dinner, and its 1:1:1 ratio of cranberry juice, orange juice, and soda makes it easy to mix up. The addition of Sprite Cranberry Zero adds a little extra tang and fizz to this fruity drink.
The cranberry-orange flavor combination is a classic holiday favorite, and this mocktail is sure to impress your guests with its pure and fruitful taste. Plus, it's easy to make and perfect for those who prefer non-alcoholic options. Give the Cranberry Orange Mocktail a try and enjoy a delicious and refreshing drink on Inauguration Day.
15. The Blue Lagoon Cocktail
If you're looking for a refreshing and visually stunning cocktail to celebrate Inauguration Day, look no further than The Blue Lagoon. This vodka-based cocktail gets its gorgeous blue hue from the addition of blue curacao.
While the name may conjure images of tropical beaches, this cocktail is perfect for any occasion. The Blue Lagoon is a great option for those who want a drink that is both delicious and eye-catching. So, why not give it a try and add a splash of color to your Inauguration Day celebration?
16. Blueberry Honey Vodka Fizz
The Blueberry Honey Vodka Fizz is a refreshing and fruity cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. Made with fresh blueberries, vodka, lemon juice, honey, and club soda, this cocktail has a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. The light pink hue of the drink is visually appealing and adds to the overall experience.
This cocktail is a great option for a girls' night out or a date night. The recipe is simple and easy to follow, making it a great choice for those who are new to making cocktails. If you're looking for a delicious and refreshing cocktail to enjoy on Inauguration Day, the Blueberry Honey Vodka Fizz should definitely be on your list.
17. East Indian Gimlet
Looking for a unique and flavorful cocktail to celebrate Inauguration Day? Look no further than the East Indian Gimlet. This gin-based cocktail is infused with warming spices like ginger and rosemary, making it the perfect winter drink. The use of Jaisalmer Gin, which includes Indian ingredients like licorice and green tea, adds a unique twist to the classic gimlet recipe.
Plus, the addition of aphrodisiac ingredients like ginger and rosemary make this cocktail perfect for a romantic evening. While the recipe does require some advanced preparation, the end result is a delicious and complex cocktail that is sure to impress. Give the East Indian Gimlet a try and add some spice to your Inauguration Day celebrations.
18. Vodka Sangria
Looking for a refreshing and authentic cocktail to celebrate Inauguration Day? Look no further than the Vodka Sangria. This drink has its origins in Spain and Portugal, but has been given a twist with the addition of vodka. The recipe calls for a $10 bottle of red wine, making it an affordable option for any celebration.
The subtle contrast of flavors from leaving the orange rinds on adds an extra layer of complexity to this already delicious drink. This cocktail is perfect for sipping on a hot summer day or for toasting to a new beginning. Give the Vodka Sangria a try and experience the eighth wonder of the drink world.
19. Brown Derby Cocktail
Looking for a classic cocktail to celebrate Inauguration Day? Look no further than the Brown Derby Cocktail. This bourbon-based drink combines the tartness of grapefruit with the sweetness of honey, resulting in a smooth and flavorful sip.
The cocktail's origins can be traced back to the Vendome Club in Hollywood in the 1930s, where it was named after the famous Brown Derby restaurant. Despite its age, the Brown Derby remains a popular choice for cocktail enthusiasts looking for a simple yet delicious drink. So why not raise a glass to the new administration with a classic Brown Derby Cocktail?
20. Sweet Tea Mint Juleps
Looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail for Inauguration Day? Look no further than the Sweet Tea Mint Julep. This cocktail combines the classic flavors of sweet tea and mint with the kick of bourbon and lemon for a cool and satisfying drink.
It's perfect for sipping on a warm afternoon or enjoying while watching the Inauguration festivities. Plus, with the added bonus of being able to grow your own mint for the recipe, you can enjoy this cocktail all summer long. Don't miss out on this delicious and unique twist on the traditional Mint Julep.
21. Red, White and Blue Jello Shots
Looking for a fun and patriotic way to celebrate Inauguration Day? Look no further than the Red, White and Blue Jello Shots. These layered Jello shots are perfect for any celebration, and are sure to be a hit at your next party.
Made with vodka, blue Jello, sweetened condensed milk, and red Jello, these Jello shots are as delicious as they are stunning. Whether you're hosting a party or just looking for a fun way to celebrate, the Red, White and Blue Jello Shots are a must-try cocktail recipe. So why not give them a try and see what all the fuss is about?
