Memorial Day weekend is a nice time to take a break and relax with family and friends. If you, like us, are planning a cookout at some point over the long weekend, you might want some refreshing beverages to sip on. There are plenty of delicious warm-weather cocktails out there, like an Aperol Spritz or a classic daiquiri or margarita. If you’re looking to twirl up something new this weekend, we’ve got just the thing.
These beer cocktails are a little creative, pack a lot of flavor, and are super refreshing. They’re the perfect accompaniment if you’re manning the grill, relaxing by the lake, or dining alfresco on the back porch. They each only require a few ingredients, take advantage of fresh flavors (like lemon, lime, peach, and even cilantro), and are easy to whip up. That way you can spend more time in the company of your friends and family enjoying a relaxing weekend.
Bee’s Knees Shandy
You may know a Bee’s Knees as a classic Prohibition-era cocktail made with gin, fresh lemon juice, and honey syrup. We’ve updated this beloved 1920s drink with a splash of lager. It just adds a little something extra! It’s the perfect drink to enjoy poolside, at the lake, or at any warm-weather cookout. This recipe is a batch cocktail, so it’s easy to stir together in a pitcher and serve all of your guests.
Get the recipe for Bee’s Knees Shandy.
Backyard BBQ Americano
If you’re looking for a new-to-you drink for the long weekend, give this summery sipper a try. This backyard-ready riff on the Americano swaps soda for ice-cold beer, adding a crisp, easygoing edge. A hit of fresh lemon keeps it bright and balanced, perfect for sipping alongside smoky, grilled flavors.
Get the recipe for Backyard BBQ Americano.
Peach Shandy
With Memorial Day being the unofficial start to summer, it might be a little early in the season for peaches. But they’ve started popping up in our neck of the woods, and if you find yourself with a few that need to be used up, this beer cocktail is a fun one to try. Purée them into juice and use them with your favorite beer to make a sweet, light, and super refreshing shandy, then hit the back porch and relax! Shandies are perfect for warm-weather days when you don’t want the weight of a full-alcohol beer.
Get the recipe for Peach Shandy.
Spicy Michelada
This fiery beer cocktail is like a Bloody Mary, but better. Try this Mexican-style combo of lime juice, beer, Clamato, and spice. It has plenty of kick, if that’s your thing! It’s a little bit lighter than a Bloody Mary, so it’s a great option for a relaxing day at the lake or a Sunday brunch with family and friends.
Get the recipe for Spicy Michelada.
