Summer Mocktails For Every Event From Girl's Nights To Cocktail Hours

We all know one way to beat the heat in the summer is a cold beverage. But for all sorts of reasons, be it health, personal choice, or just having to drive home later, not all of us choose to indulge with an alcoholic beverage. No matter what the occasion, there’s always another option — and it doesn’t have to just be water. With mocktails quickly rising in popularity, there are tons of online inspiration that proves the point that your drink can be just as fun and Insta-worthy without any alcohol at all. 

It wouldn’t be a girl's night in (or out) without some frozen, fruity goodness. Keep it fun and fresh with these pink grapefruit “margaritas.” We guarantee the ingredients are cheaper, but they are just as satisfying. Whip up a batch of these in your blender in no time and marvel at the pink ombré effect of the grenadine at the bottom of the glass.  With a sugared rim instead of a salted one, these drinks are just as elegant and sweet as the group of ladies you’re enjoying them with. 

Get out and enjoy the sunshine with your bridal party without the fear of dehydration that comes with any daytime drinking. These lavender mocktails are perfect for sipping poolside and will keep you refreshed to dance the night away with your favorite group of girls. Plus, the added sprigs of lavender and basil will make any photos taken look instantly classier. If you or one of your friends is an avid gardener, you can even use your own home-grown lavender for homemade lavender syrup. 

For a drink that requires slightly more prep time and a few more drink-specific ingredients, some virgin old-fashioneds look like an incredible addition to any bachelor party spread. Who knew that the best replacement for whiskey could be tea? Cool and smokey with a complex range of flavor on the palate, these are definitely the way to go for those who might miss the experience of a well-crafted cocktail. 

We all know the best part of any sangria isn’t the wine but the fruit floating inside. This non-alcoholic sangria makes an excellent choice for the rehearsal dinner to ensure that everyone is going to be ready and picture-perfect the next morning — no excuses for hitting the bar too hard! It’s easily customizable with fruits that are in season near you or just some of your favorites. Plus, the recipe lends itself well to making large batches so you can make sure there’s a pitcher on every table. 

The hardest part with most mocktails is finding a low-sugar option that’s suitable for everyone. This option is sweetened only with honey and blackberries and uses seltzer instead of tonic water to avoid any unwanted additives. The added mint gives it a well-rounded flavor, making it appealing to all of your guests. Plus, for the ease of your bartenders, this recipe can easily swap the water for vodka so you can have an equal access cocktail/mocktail with the same ingredients. 

When it comes time to raise a glass, you want its contents to reflect the importance of the occasion. While sparkling apple cider is always a quick and easy go-to, we couldn’t resist these ginger basil spritzers. The basil and grapefruit flavor combination gives the same fruity and floral notes as a good glass of champagne, and we think the curl of the grapefruit garnish makes these look even better. Nothing says summer quite like a bouquet of freshly picked basil in every glass. 

When all is said and done and it’s finally time to unwind with your new partner for life, you’ll want a drink that will help you relax and enjoy. Although it is summer, there’s something to be said about the soothing effects of a hot drink, and these “hot toddys” look fantastic as a way to unwind. Lavender, ginger, lemon, and your favorite herbal tea combine for some amazing relaxation effects, and they don’t taste half-bad together either. Pro tip: Maybe leave the garlic out of this recipe. It is the honeymoon suite after all!