Simply prep ahead, pour into a jug, and let guests help themselves while you soak up the compliments (and the sun). We love the gamut – citrusy spritzes, fruit-laced punches, herb-infused coolers: these recipes are designed to make your summer bash go with a bang. That’s what we call nice jugs.
Grown Up Limeade
BBC Good Food
Zesty, refreshing, and deceptively simple, this grown-up limeade combines zingy lime juice with vodka and elderflower cordial for a floral, citrus-forward hit. Topped with soda water and garnished with mint and cucumber, it’s the ultimate sunshine sipper – perfect for jugfuls at garden parties or effortless summer evening drinks with friends. Get the recipe.
Gin Garden Fizz
Olive Magazine
A vibrant, summery jug cocktail that’s both ultra cooling and dangerously easy to drink: gin, tangy lemon juice, and fresh summer berries (this is what your strawberries and raspberries glut is made for) lightly muddled with mint. Consider your garden parties and lazy weekend afternoons set. Get the recipe.
The Best Party Sangria
The Spruce Eats
A true crowd-pleaser, this classic sangria marries red wine with brandy, orange juice, and plenty of fresh fruit for a bold, fruity punch that only gets better as it chills. Bursting with citrus and berry notes, it’s the ultimate make-ahead jug cocktail for effortless entertaining all summer long. Plus, it whisks you off to Spain in a sip. Get the recipe.
Watermelon Pitcher Margaritas
Simply Recipes
Is there anything more thirst-quenching on a scorching day than watermelon? These pitcher margaritas bring together the juicy pink stuff with zingy lime, tequila and triple sec for a fruity twist on a classic. It’s sweet and tangy in all the right ways – just add sunshine, ice, and a crew of thirsty friends. Get the recipe.
Grapefruit Mojitos
BBC Good Food
Grapefruit in a mojito? Oh yes. This zesty twist on the Cuban classic is bright, punchy and pitcher perfect. Sharp grapefruit meets cooling mint, white rum and soda for a seriously refreshing sip. It’s got just the right balance of sweet and sour – ideal for sun-soaked socials. Get the recipe.
