Mocktails—booze-free cocktails—are a thing, and rightly so. These drinks prove that a fun beverage need not be defined by its alcohol content. And no matter whether you or one of your guests is abstaining, everyone should be included in that fun. I’ve stirred up five summery cocktails that you can make with or without alcohol. For a couple of these drinks, you can just hold the alcohol (or not). For others, it’ll mean one batch for imbibers and one batch for non. Offering a special beverage is a great way to welcome guests. Serve with a meal or over the course of an afternoon, at a picnic, or poolside. Just serve them—to everyone.
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RecipeHibiscus Sangria Punch
The rose syrup or liqueur adds a floral note to this fruity alcohol-optional punch. -
RecipeSummer Breeze
Is there anything better than summer watermelon? Yes, it turns out: watermelon combined with the brightness of grapefruit juice (and vodka, if you choose). -
RecipePeachy Palmer
Arnold Palmer famously drank a combo of iced tea and lemonade. Adding juicy stone fruit makes it an especially summery treat. -
RecipeMelon-Cucumber-Lime Slushie
Think of this as agua fresca meets frozen margarita. With or without tequila, it’s a perfect cooler for warm days (and nights). -
RecipeGazpacho Swizzler
This michelada (tomato juice, beer, lime juice, and spices) features fresh tomatoes, bell pepper, and the zing of ginger beer.
