It's that time of year again. The air is crisp, the leaves are changing colors, and the sound of cheering fans can be heard from miles away. That's right, it's tailgating season!
Whether you're a die-hard football fan or just enjoy the social aspect of tailgating, there's no denying that it's a great way to spend a weekend. But what's a tailgate without a drink in hand?
As a bartender, I've seen my fair share of tailgate cocktails. Some are great, some not so much. But what makes a good tailgate drink?
It needs to be refreshing, easy to make, and most importantly, portable. After all, you don't want to be lugging around a blender at a tailgate.
In this post, I'll be sharing some of the best tailgate drinks that I've come across. From classics like beer and whiskey to more creative concoctions, there's something for everyone.
So whether you're tailgating in a parking lot or in your own backyard, grab a drink and let's get started!
1. Yellow Hammer Slammer
The Yellow Hammer Slammer is a strong and festive cocktail perfect for tailgating parties. Made with equal parts of vodka, rum, and amaretto, and mixed with pineapple and orange juice, this cocktail is a hit among football fans. It's important to note that this drink should be consumed with caution as the taste of booze is not prominent.
The Yellow Hammer Slammer is a great option for those looking for a fun and easy-to-make cocktail to enjoy while watching the game. So, grab your team's colors straws, fill your glass with ice and maraschino cherries, and get ready to enjoy this delicious tailgate drink.
2. Blended Mimosas
Looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail for your next tailgate party? Look no further than the Blended Mimosa! This deliciously chilled drink is the perfect way to kick off a gameday morning, and is sure to be a hit with your fellow tailgaters.
Made with orange juice and champagne, this riff on a classic mimosa is both sweet and bubbly, and is perfect for sipping on a hot day. Whether you're a fan of mimosas or just looking for a new tailgate drink to try, the Blended Mimosa is a must-try recipe that is sure to impress. So why not give it a try at your next tailgate party and see for yourself just how delicious it can be?
3. Sunday Funday Punch
If you're looking for a refreshing and fruity cocktail to enjoy during your tailgate party, Sunday Funday Punch is the perfect choice. This big batch cocktail is a great option for hosting a brunch or any Sunday Funday event worth celebrating. The combination of orange juice with mango adds a tropical tang that sets it apart from other cocktails.
It's a bubbly and delicious drink that goes down smooth and is perfect for relaxing on a Sunday afternoon. You can even mix the ingredients ahead of time to let the flavors and fruits fuse together. So, if you want to add some fun to your weekend, whip up a batch of this refreshing Sunday Funday Punch and enjoy the game day with your friends and family.
4. Blood Orange Margarita
The Blood Orange Margarita is a perfect cocktail for any tailgate party. This stunning cocktail is made with Cointreau and the juice of blood oranges, which creates a smooth and easy-to-drink cocktail. The bright orange color of the cocktail is perfect for cheering on the Denver Broncos.
The recipe for this cocktail is easy to follow and the end result is a delicious and refreshing drink that is perfect for any tailgate party. If you're looking for a cocktail that is both beautiful and delicious, the Blood Orange Margarita is definitely worth trying.
5. Alabama Slammer Cocktail
The Alabama Slammer Cocktail is a sweet and fruity drink made with Southern Comfort, sloe gin, and amaretto. Its bright red color makes it the signature drink of the Crimson Tide.
Legend has it that it was created at the University of Alabama in the mid-1970s. With its fruity and nutty flavor, this iconic cocktail is perfect for tailgating events or sipping by the pool.
6. Margarita Punch
Looking for a delicious and easy-to-make tailgate cocktail? Look no further than Margarita Punch! This low-carb cocktail is perfect for football season and is sure to please any party crowd. Made with Torani sugar-free lime syrup, tequila, and lime juice, this punch has all the flavor of a classic margarita but can be made in large quantities.
It's perfect for filling up a large drink container with ice and sliced limes. Taste test the mixture before pouring it in and adjust as necessary. This thirst-quenching drink is perfect for a tailgate or any summer day.
7. Ultimate Caesar Cocktail
The Ultimate Caesar Cocktail is a Canadian classic that is perfect for any tailgate party. This cocktail has a base of Caesar mix and vodka, with added flavor and spice from ingredients like horseradish, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce. The garnish options are endless, but the traditional celery stick is always a great choice.
What sets this cocktail apart is the snack built right into it, making it a perfect addition to any tailgate spread. Whether you like it extra spicy or milder, this cocktail is sure to be a hit with your friends and family. So, why not add the Ultimate Caesar Cocktail to your tailgate lineup and enjoy a taste of Canada?
8. Prosecco Margaritas
If you're looking for a fun and celebratory cocktail to serve at your next tailgate party, look no further than the Prosecco Margarita. This twist on the classic margarita recipe adds the bubbly goodness of prosecco to create a crisp and refreshing drink that's perfect for any occasion.
Made with just a few simple ingredients, this cocktail is easy to prepare and can be served in a pitcher for a crowd. The bubbles in the prosecco add a festive touch that's sure to impress your guests. So why not add some sparkle to your next tailgate with a Prosecco Margarita?
9. Whiskey Ginger Cocktail
The Whiskey Ginger Cocktail is a refreshing and easy-to-make drink that is perfect for tailgating. With just three ingredients – whiskey, ginger ale, and a fresh lime wedge – this cocktail is simple yet delicious. Whether you're a whiskey lover or not, the combination of the sweet ginger ale and tart lime juice perfectly balance out the bold flavor of the whiskey.
Plus, the cocktail can be easily customized to your liking by adjusting the amount of whiskey or ginger ale used. So, if you're looking for a quick and tasty cocktail to enjoy while tailgating, be sure to give the Whiskey Ginger Cocktail a try!
10. Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is a classic bourbon-based cocktail that's perfect for any occasion, including tailgating. It's a simple yet sophisticated drink that has a bold flavor with a hint of sweetness and citrus notes.
The key to making a great Old Fashioned is to use quality ingredients, such as a good bourbon and Angostura bitters. It's a timeless drink that will never go out of style and is perfect for sipping on while enjoying a tailgate party with friends and family.
11. Lime Rickey
If you're looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail for your tailgate party, the Lime Rickey is a great choice. This classic drink has been around since the 1880s and is still popular today. It's made with fresh lime juice, simple syrup, and club soda, and can be made with either gin or bourbon.
The Lime Rickey is perfect for those who love a citrusy and slightly sweet cocktail. It's also a great option for those who want a non-alcoholic version, as the virgin Lime Rickey is just as delicious. Whether you're a fan of gin or bourbon, the Lime Rickey is a great cocktail to try at your next tailgate party.
