The inevitable end of summer is here, people. This means that it is time to toast the long days and high temperatures goodbye with Labor Day drinks during the long weekend. It is a bittersweet time, after all. Summer has such a carefree vibe to it; I am sure we all miss that feeling during the cooler season. I know I definitely will.
Labor Day weekend usually marks a significant change in our daily lives, too. Work starts to pick up, school is in full swing, and the holidays are only a few weeks away. It also gives us the chance to sneak in one last summer barbecue topped off with hangouts by the pool. Plus, what better way to give those summer dresses a spin before stowing them away for the winter?
So, as you think about your Labor Day weekend plans, consider making one (or several) of these summer-inspired drinks. It is one of the best ways to wrap up an entire sunny season of memories and good times. You can even make non-alcoholic versions by omitting the booze and using ginger ale or sparkling water. And just like that, you can savor summer down to the last drop.
1. Summer Sangria with Grilled Citrus
Nothing says summer like quality time at the grill. Take a tip from The Crepes of Wrath and grill your fruits for a unique spin on the average sangria. And since cooking tends to emphasize the flavors of fruit, you'll be in for a serious treat.
2. Ginger Peach Sangria
While I'm on the topic of unconventional sangria recipes, can we just talk about Love and Lemons' ginger peach version? Lovers of herbal flavors will adore this one.
3. Cucumber Delight Cocktail
Savor the last few weeks of high temps with a cucumber cocktail from Foodie Crush. Top it off with a tasty cantaloupe ball, and you've got a drink that tastes as good as it looks.
4. Grapefruit Paloma
If you're a fan of margaritas, you'll adore this paloma recipe by House of Yumm. It features the perfect marriage of sweet and tangy flavors complete with lime sugar.
5. Strawberry Bourbon Lemonade
Sweeten up Labor Day with this boozy bourbon lemonade idea by The Crepes of Wrath. Heck, you might even be tempted to set up a lemonade stand just for adults. I support it.
6. Rose Lemon Spritzer
It goes without saying that roses can make anything and everything 10 times more beautiful. This rose lemon spritzer by Half Baked Harvest is no exception. I'm definitely trying this before summer is over.
7. Kombucha Mojitos
Healthy boozy drinks? Is that a thing? Thanks to Half Baked Harvest's kombucha mojitos, it might be. This recipe is made with kombucha, a tasty fermented tea, giving you a dose of good-for-you bacteria paired with refreshing rum.
8. Spicy Jalapeño Margaritas
Spice up your average margarita with Love and Lemon's jalapeño idea. It's the best way to wrap up summer with a flavorful bang. This one definitely isn't for the faint of heart, though.
9. Guava Mojito
Celebrate the last of summer's tropical vibes with Table for Two's guava mojito. One sip and it will be like you never left the beach.
10. Watermelon & Basil Mojito
There's just something so refreshing about pairing basil with watermelon. A Beautiful Mess explains how to make a mojito featuring these two classic summer ingredients.
11. Whiskey Lemonade with Honey Simple Syrup
Clearly, lemonade isn't just for kids. Foodie Crush offers another adult-friendly version with this whiskey lemonade tutorial. I bet this would be amazing in slushie form.
12. Basil Lemonade Cocktail
The boozy lemonades don't stop there, though. A Beautiful Mess created this basil cocktail alternative that will cool you down in the best way.
13. Key Lime Cooler
Key lime is one of those flavors that reminds me of vacation. Pair it with gin and mint leaves and you've got yourself a cheery summer treat. Head to The Crepes of Wrath to learn how to make it.
14. Lemon Berry Martini
Embrace the last of summer's fresh berries with House of Yumm's lemon berry martini recipe. This particular cocktail also involves champagne, which totally caught my attention. Talk about a sophisticated Labor Day weekend.
15. Blood Orange Punch
A fruity, delicious punch is a must-have for Labor Day festivities. For something a little out of the ordinary, try this blood orange recipe by The Crepes of Wrath. This one is especially perfect for those who love the unique combo of bitter and sweet.
16. Pomegranate Rum Punch
Keep the fun punch creations going with a pomegranate rum recipe by A Beautiful Mess. Top it off with a slice of pineapple for full summer feels.
17. Whisky Sour
I have to admit, I love myself a good ol' whisky sour. It's a classic drink that is always welcome at any get-together. Learn how to make it at The Crepes of Wrath.
18. Mango Margarita
Here's another cocktail that will remind you of sunshine and beaches. House of Yumm combines mango juice, orange liqueur, and tequila in this refreshing concoction.
19. Sunset Cocktail
With a name like sunset cocktail, how can you not make it for Labor Day? Table for Two's recipe brings together mangoes, peaches, and strawberries for a vibrant summer drink.
20. Watermelon Strawberry Mojito
Watermelon makes another awesome appearance in Fashion Edible's mojito recipe. Try making ice pop versions for a seriously cool treat.
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