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You don’t need to be a pro bartender to enjoy these Kentucky Derby drinks. Most of them call for simple ingredients like berries, lemonade, honey and mint.
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Why not treat yourself to something fresh this Derby Day?
Drinks can offer a great start because they don’t require advanced cooking skills or any special equipment.
Mix up something refreshing and flavorful in just a few minutes!
Boozy Frozen Lemonade
This lemonade is fun, fruity, and guaranteed to cool you down fast on Derby Day.
All it takes is a quick spin in the blender and you’re good to go.
Get The Recipe: Boozy Frozen Lemonade
Watermelon Agua Fresca
Love watermelon drinks? This beverage is light, juicy, and not overly sweet.
It includes ripe watermelon, lime, and agave.
Get The Recipe: Watermelon Agua Fresca
Grapefruit Vodka Cocktail
Try this cocktail and get creative with the garnishes!
Main ingredients include grapefruit juice, maple syrup, and vodka. Once done, garnish it with a sprig of rosemary and grapefruit slices.
Get The Recipe: Grapefruit Vodka Cocktail
Ginger Lime Refresher
This drink is alcohol-free, vegan, and made without sugar.
Serve it in tall glasses with a sprig of mint, then pair with cucumber tea sandwiches.
Get The Recipe: Ginger Lime Refresher
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Blackberry Juice
Check out this recipe and fall in love with blackberries even more.
This one is a top pick for Kentucky Derby Day, with fresh blackberries, sugar, and fresh mint.
Get The Recipe: Blackberry Juice
Pineapple and Cucumber Juice
This juice is a hydrating and detoxifying drink that’s perfect for sunny Derby days.
It combines the natural sweetness of cucumber and pineapple.
Get The Recipe: Pineapple and Cucumber Juice
Dragon Fruit Lemonade
It’s time to enjoy dragon fruit in a new, refreshing way.
This lemonade has a sweet-tart flavor profile, thanks to dragon fruit, lemon juice, and maple syrup.
Get The Recipe: Dragon Fruit Lemonade
Kentucky Derby Mint Julep (Classic Bourbon Cocktail)
No Kentucky Derby celebration is complete without the classic Mint Julep.
This traditional cocktail includes simple syrup, mint leaves, and Kentucky bourbon.
Get The Recipe: Kentucky Derby Mint Julep (Classic Bourbon Cocktail)
3-Ingredient Mint Julep
This three-ingredient cocktail offers a simplified take on the traditional.
It’s easy to prepare and doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Pair it with deviled eggs or mini crab cakes.
Get The Recipe: 3-Ingredient Mint Julep
Peach Mint Julep
Want something fun and a little different this Derby Day? Try this fruity twist on a classic.
You only need a few simple ingredients like Royal Peach whisky, mint leaves, and simple syrup.
Get The Recipe: Peach Mint Julep
Iced Mint Tea with Peppermint or Spearmint
Who can ever say no to a refreshing glass of iced mint tea?
This non-alcoholic recipe is a great option. It’s so delicious and not overpowering.
Get The Recipe: Iced Mint Tea with Peppermint or Spearmint
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Cucumber Lemonade Mocktail
Transform your Derby Day with this hydrating mocktail.
It combines the coolness of cucumber juice with the tang of lemonade and a touch of cane sugar.
Get The Recipe: Cucumber Lemonade Mocktail
Sparkling Lime Vodka Drink
Hosting a group for the Derby? Everyone will love this cocktail.
It’s a fizzy and citrusy concoction that’s perfect for sharing.
Get The Recipe: Sparkling Lime Vodka Drink
Bourbon Whiskey Tonic Cocktail
This drink is a refreshing alternative to the classic Kentucky Derby Day favorites.
You only need three simple ingredients to make it! Remember to chill your glass before serving.
Get The Recipe: Bourbon Whiskey Tonic Cocktail
Blackberry Crown Royal Lemonade Cocktail
This cocktail comes together in just five minutes.
It’s smooth, tart, and irresistible, with Crown Royal Blackberry, lemonade, and fresh lemon and blackberry.
Get The Recipe: Blackberry Crown Royal Lemonade Cocktail
Strawberry Lemonade
Nothing says summer like a glass of homemade strawberry lemonade.
This version is easy and straightforward, with fresh strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and water.
Get The Recipe: Strawberry Lemonade
Honey Old Fashioned Cocktail
Whether you’re hosting or just enjoying solo, these drinks bring something special to the table.
This one comes with a striking natural sweetness you’ll want to have again and again.
Get The Recipe: Honey Old Fashioned Cocktail
Lemon Iced Tea
This iced tea offers a naturally sweet and citrusy flavor without any added sugar.
Just gather rooibos tea bags, honey, lemons, limes, mint, and ice—and you’re all set.
Get The Recipe: Lemon Iced Tea
Chick Fil A Frosted Lemonade
This copycat recipe blends creamy vanilla ice cream with tangy lemonade concentrate, resulting in a refreshing and indulgent treat.
Serve it in a tall glass with a lemon slice garnish.
Get The Recipe: Chick Fil A Frosted Lemonade
Rosemary Brown Derby (Bourbon and Grapefruit Cocktail)
In search of something you can pair with seafood dishes?
This elegant cocktail features bourbon, grapefruit juice, lemon juice, honey, and fresh rosemary.
Get The Recipe: Rosemary Brown Derby (Bourbon and Grapefruit Cocktail)
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Celebrate Kentucky Derby Day with refreshing drinks!
You can go for both non-alcoholic and alcoholic options. As for flavors, try playing around with berries, peaches, lime, lemon, and mint.
Most recipes only need a few ingredients and a quick stir and you’re all done.
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Read it here: 25 Kentucky Derby Appetizers That’ll Have You Cheering Before the Race Even Starts
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Read it here: 25 Kentucky Derby Recipes That Deserve a Spot on the Winner’s Podium
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Looking for more recipes? These meals are so delicious and easy to make, perfect for serving a crowd:
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