Fourth of July Cocktails That Deserve a Fireworks Show

Red, white & boozy—and mocktail-friendly too.

There’s something about the 4th of July that practically begs for a cocktail in hand. Maybe it’s the smoky scent of the grill, the sticky-sweet slices of watermelon, or the soundtrack of sparklers crackling under a starry sky. But this year, your drinks shouldn’t just be cold—they should be extra. We're talking layered slushies that look like fireworks in a glass, fresh garden herbs that meet summer fruit, and spicy tajín rims that bring the heat.

Whether you're throwing the backyard bash of the summer or just want something festive to sip while you watch the fireworks from the porch, these cocktails (and their equally fun mocktail versions) were made to pop.

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Hosting the ultimate 4th of July bash? Don’t stop at the drinks—serve them up alongside our Firecracker Flavors roundup for bold, festive bites that bring the heat.

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1. Red, White & Blue Layered Slushie

Looks like a rocket pop, tastes like a summer party. This frozen beauty layers strawberry daiquiri, piña colada, and blue curaçao slush into a stars-and-stripes-inspired drink that’s basically a party in a glass.

Boozy version:

• Bottom layer: Frozen strawberries, rum, lime juice, and ice

• Middle layer: Coconut cream, white rum, pineapple juice, and ice

• Top layer: Blue curaçao, lemon vodka, and ice

Layer carefully with a spoon or pour slowly to keep the colors distinct. Serve with a straw and a mini sparkler (or some star-shaped fruit skewers if you're playing it safe).

Mocktail version: Swap the alcohol for coconut water, lemonade, and blue sports drink. Same visual wow-factor, zero booze.

2. Blueberry Basil Gin Fizz

Herby, bubbly, and surprisingly addictive. This is for the friend who says, “I don’t like sweet drinks,” and then finishes two of these without noticing. Blueberries and basil give it a garden-fresh vibe, while gin and soda water keep it light and refreshing.

Boozy version:

• Muddle blueberries and fresh basil in a shaker

• Add gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup

• Shake with ice and strain over fresh ice

• Top with club soda

• Garnish with a basil leaf and a few whole blueberries

Mocktail version: Muddle the same, but use a splash of white grape juice instead of gin, and top with lemon LaCroix or sparkling water.

3. Watermelon Margarita with Tajín Rim

Sweet, spicy, and a little bit wild. If watermelon and chili-lime seasoning had a baby, it would be this cocktail. It's bold, it's juicy, and it makes every bite of barbecue taste better.

Boozy version:

• Fresh watermelon juice (blended + strained)

• Tequila, lime juice, and agave syrup

• Shake and pour over ice in a Tajín-rimmed glass

Mocktail version: Same ingredients, minus the tequila. Add a splash of lime seltzer for fizz and flair.

Pro tip: Freeze chunks of watermelon instead of ice cubes for extra chill that doesn’t water down your drink.

4. Cherry Bomb Bourbon Smash

Dark cherry meets backyard smoke. This one’s for the whiskey lovers—or the people you’re trying to convert. It’s moody, juicy, and absolutely fireworks-worthy when sipped at golden hour.

Boozy version:

• Muddle fresh cherries and mint with lemon juice

• Add bourbon and a little honey syrup

• Shake with ice and strain into a rocks glass

• Garnish with a mint sprig and a cherry on top

Mocktail version: Use cold brew iced tea or black cherry juice in place of the bourbon. Still deep and complex, just without the burn.

Bring the Boom (Without the Hangover)

Whether you’re going all-in on the booze or keeping it zero-proof, these drinks bring the vibe. They look great, taste like summer, and are way more fun than another beer-in-a-koozie situation.

So grab your shades, fire up the grill, and shake something red, white & delicious. This 4th of July, your drinks deserve a fireworks show.