Memorial Day weekend is approaching, and it’s the perfect time to enjoy refreshing cocktails with friends and family.
Vodka is a versatile spirit that works well in many summer drinks, from classics to creative new concoctions.
These 15 vodka cocktails will help you celebrate Memorial Day with delicious drinks that are easy to make and sure to impress your guests.
I’ve gathered recipes that range from simple two-ingredient mixers to more elaborate options with fresh fruits and herbs.
They’re perfect for backyard barbecues, pool parties, or relaxing on your patio during the long weekend.
1) Spiked Lemon Vodka Lemonade
Nothing says Memorial Day like a refreshing glass of spiked lemonade! I love making this classic summer cocktail for backyard barbecues and pool parties.
This drink is super simple to prepare. You’ll need fresh lemons, sugar, water, vodka, and ice. The tangy lemon flavor pairs perfectly with smooth vodka for a drink that’s both tart and sweet.
I recommend using a good quality vodka for the best taste. My personal preference is a citrus-infused vodka to enhance the lemon flavor, but regular vodka works great too!
For an extra special touch, I rim the glasses with sugar. It adds a sweet crunch with every sip and makes the presentation more festive for your Memorial Day celebration.
You can easily make this in large batches for a crowd. Just multiply the ingredients and serve in a pretty glass pitcher with lemon slices floating on top.
Adding fresh muddled berries or herbs like mint or basil can create delicious variations. I sometimes add a splash of blueberry juice to create a patriotic red, white, and blue drink!
This refreshing cocktail is perfect for hot weather and outdoor gatherings. It’s light, not too strong, and incredibly refreshing after a day in the sun.
2) Cranberry Vodka Spritzer
This refreshing Cranberry Vodka Spritzer is perfect for Memorial Day celebrations. I love serving it when hosting outdoor gatherings because it’s both simple and impressive.
To make this drink, I combine 1.5 ounces of vodka with 3 ounces of cranberry juice in a tall glass filled with ice. Then I top it with a splash of club soda for that perfect fizz.
The bright red color makes it a patriotic choice for Memorial Day. I often garnish with fresh lime wedges and a few fresh cranberries if I have them on hand.
What I appreciate most about this cocktail is how easy it is to adjust to taste. If you prefer a stronger drink, add more vodka. Want it sweeter? Use cranberry cocktail instead of pure cranberry juice.
For large gatherings, I make a big batch version by mixing vodka and cranberry juice in a pitcher, letting guests add their own soda and ice. This saves me time when hosting.
The spritzer is light and refreshing, making it ideal for warm weather celebrations. The tartness of cranberry balances perfectly with the vodka, while the soda adds a pleasant effervescence.
I sometimes add a splash of orange liqueur for a more complex flavor profile. It’s an easy upgrade that makes the drink feel even more special for the holiday weekend.
3) Blueberry Vodka Smash
The Blueberry Vodka Smash is one of my favorite Memorial Day cocktails when I want something refreshing with plenty of summer flavor. Fresh blueberries give this drink its gorgeous purple-blue color that’s perfect for a patriotic holiday spread.
I start by muddling about a quarter cup of fresh blueberries with a tablespoon of sugar in the bottom of a glass. This releases all those amazing berry juices and creates a sweet base for the cocktail.
Next, I add 2 ounces of good quality vodka and the juice of half a lemon. The lemon brightens up the drink and balances the sweetness of the berries.
I fill the glass with ice and top it with a splash of club soda for some bubbles. You could also use lemon-lime soda if you prefer a sweeter drink.
For garnish, I add a few whole blueberries and a sprig of mint. The mint gives a lovely aroma when you take a sip, and it looks beautiful against the purple drink.
This cocktail is incredibly versatile. You can make it in big batches for a crowd by multiplying the ingredients and serving in a pitcher. Just add the club soda right before serving so it stays fizzy.
I love that this drink showcases fresh summer berries and comes together in just a few minutes. It’s refreshing, not too sweet, and the perfect way to cool down during your Memorial Day celebrations!
4) Watermelon Vodka Cooler
Watermelon and vodka create a perfect summer match! This refreshing cocktail is one of my favorite Memorial Day drinks because it’s so simple to make.
Start with 2 cups of fresh watermelon chunks. Blend them until smooth and strain to remove seeds. The natural sweetness of watermelon means you won’t need much added sugar.
Mix 4 ounces of quality vodka with the watermelon juice. I like to use unflavored vodka to let the watermelon shine, but watermelon vodka works great too if you want an extra boost of flavor.
Add ice, a splash of lime juice, and a bit of club soda for fizz. The lime brightens everything up and balances the sweetness perfectly.
I love serving this in mason jars with watermelon wedges on the rim. It looks so festive for Memorial Day gatherings!
For a fun twist, freeze small watermelon balls and use them instead of ice cubes. They keep your drink cold without diluting it and make a tasty treat when you finish your cocktail.
This drink is always a crowd-pleaser at backyard barbecues. The pretty pink color looks great in photos too, which is always a bonus!
5) Classic Vodka Martini
The Classic Vodka Martini is a perfect Memorial Day cocktail that brings elegance to any celebration. I love serving this timeless drink when hosting friends and family during the long weekend.
To make this cocktail, I mix 2 ounces of premium vodka with ½ ounce of dry vermouth. The quality of vodka really matters here – the better the vodka, the smoother the martini!
I always stir the ingredients with ice for about 30 seconds rather than shaking. This keeps the drink crystal clear and prevents dilution.
The traditional garnish is either a lemon twist or olives. For Memorial Day, I like using blue cheese stuffed olives for an extra special touch.
Serving tip: chill your martini glasses in the freezer beforehand. This keeps your cocktail cold longer during those warm holiday gatherings.
What I love about the Classic Vodka Martini is its versatility. You can adjust the ratio of vodka to vermouth based on your preference. Less vermouth makes it “dry” while more creates a “wet” martini.
For a patriotic presentation, I sometimes add a small American flag toothpick through the olives. It’s a simple way to honor the holiday while enjoying this sophisticated drink.
The simplicity of this cocktail makes it perfect when you’re busy with other Memorial Day preparations. Just three ingredients create a timeless drink everyone appreciates.
6) Rosemary Vodka Fizz
The Rosemary Vodka Fizz is my go-to Memorial Day cocktail when I want something refreshing with an herbal twist. I love how the rosemary adds a surprising but delightful flavor to this simple drink.
To make this drink, I muddle 2-3 fresh rosemary sprigs with 2 ounces of quality vodka. The oils from the herb infuse quickly into the alcohol, creating an amazing aroma.
I then add ice, 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice, and a splash of simple syrup to a shaker. After a good shake, I strain everything into a tall glass with fresh ice.
The magic happens when I top it with club soda and watch it fizz! I always garnish with another sprig of rosemary and a thin lemon slice for that perfect presentation.
What I really enjoy about this cocktail is how versatile it is. On hot Memorial Day afternoons, it’s wonderfully cooling. But it works just as well into the evening when the celebrations continue.
The herbaceous notes make this drink feel sophisticated without being complicated. My friends always ask for the recipe after trying it at my Memorial Day gatherings.
For a fun variation, I sometimes add a few blueberries to give it a patriotic red, white, and blue theme. The berries add a sweet note that balances beautifully with the rosemary.
7) Pineapple Vodka Punch
Pineapple Vodka Punch is one of my favorite summer cocktails for Memorial Day gatherings. The tropical flavor brings a vacation vibe to any backyard barbecue.
This punch combines sweet pineapple juice, vodka, and a splash of lime for the perfect balance. I like to add some club soda for a bit of fizz that makes it extra refreshing when the weather heats up.
Making a big batch is super easy! Just mix 2 cups vodka, 4 cups pineapple juice, 1/2 cup lime juice, and 2 cups club soda in a punch bowl. Stir gently to combine.
For a fancier presentation, I freeze pineapple chunks to use as ice cubes. They keep your drink cold without watering it down and look really pretty in the glass.
I always garnish with fresh pineapple wedges and mint leaves. The bright yellow color makes it a cheerful addition to your Memorial Day table.
If you want to make it extra special, try using pineapple-infused vodka. Just soak pineapple chunks in vodka for 3-4 days before your event.
For a non-alcoholic version that kids will enjoy, simply leave out the vodka and add more club soda. Everyone can join in the fun!
8) Minty Vodka Mojito
The Minty Vodka Mojito puts a fun twist on the classic Cuban cocktail by replacing rum with vodka. I love making this refreshing drink for Memorial Day gatherings when the weather starts warming up.
To make this cocktail, I start with fresh mint leaves and muddle them gently at the bottom of a tall glass. This releases those amazing aromatic oils that make mojitos so special.
Next, I add the juice of one lime, a tablespoon of sugar, and plenty of ice. The lime and mint combination creates that perfect summer flavor that everyone enjoys.
Instead of rum, I pour in 2 ounces of good vodka. I find that vodka creates a cleaner, crisper drink that lets the mint really shine through.
Top it all off with club soda and give it a gentle stir. I like to garnish with extra mint sprigs and a lime wheel to make it look as good as it tastes.
This drink is so versatile and refreshing – it’s perfect for sipping by the pool or serving at your Memorial Day barbecue. The bright green color even fits with the springtime vibe of the holiday!
If you want to get fancy, try using a flavored vodka like citrus or berry. You can also add a few berries or cucumber slices for an extra twist.
9) Cucumber Vodka Refresher
This cool cucumber drink is my go-to refresher for Memorial Day celebrations. It’s light, crisp, and perfect for hot weather gatherings.
I start with 2 ounces of good quality vodka in a shaker. Then I add 4-5 thin slices of fresh cucumber and muddle them gently to release their refreshing flavor.
Next comes 1/2 ounce of fresh lime juice and 1/2 ounce of simple syrup. The balance of tart and sweet makes this cocktail especially delicious on a warm day.
I shake everything with ice until it’s properly chilled. Then I strain it into a tall glass filled with fresh ice.
To finish, I top it with a splash of club soda for some refreshing bubbles. A cucumber ribbon garnish and mint sprig make it look as good as it tastes.
What I love about this drink is how hydrating it feels. The cucumber gives it a spa-like quality that’s perfect for sipping by the pool during your Memorial Day festivities.
For a fun variation, I sometimes use cucumber-infused vodka. Just let sliced cucumbers sit in vodka for 24 hours before your party, and you’ll have an even more flavorful base for this cocktail.
10) Tropical Vodka Sunrise
The Tropical Vodka Sunrise is one of my favorite Memorial Day cocktails because it brings a taste of vacation to your holiday celebration. This vibrant drink combines the smoothness of vodka with tropical fruit juices for a refreshing experience.
To make this cocktail, I start with a tall glass filled with ice. I pour in 2 ounces of good quality vodka, then add 4 ounces of pineapple juice and top with 1 ounce of grenadine.
The beautiful sunrise effect happens naturally as the grenadine sinks to the bottom. Don’t stir it! The gradient from red to yellow looks stunning in a clear glass.
I like to garnish mine with a pineapple wedge and a maraschino cherry. Sometimes I’ll add a small paper umbrella for that extra tropical feel that’s perfect for Memorial Day celebrations.
The sweet and tangy flavors make this drink a crowd-pleaser. It’s strong enough for the adults but can be made alcohol-free for kids by simply omitting the vodka.
If you want to add an extra tropical twist, try using coconut-flavored vodka instead of regular. This small change creates an entirely new flavor profile that your guests will love.
This cocktail works great for batch preparation too. I often mix up a pitcher (minus the grenadine) and let guests add the red layer themselves for that interactive experience.
The Tropical Vodka Sunrise is more than just a pretty drink – it’s a refreshing way to honor the holiday while enjoying time with friends and family.
11) Strawberry Vodka Daiquiri
This refreshing summer cocktail is one of my favorites for Memorial Day celebrations. The Strawberry Vodka Daiquiri combines the sweetness of fresh strawberries with the clean taste of vodka.
To make this drink, I start with 2 ounces of quality vodka and add 4-5 fresh strawberries, 1 ounce of lime juice, and ½ ounce of simple syrup. Everything goes into a blender with ice until smooth.
The bright red color makes this cocktail perfect for patriotic holiday gatherings. I love serving these in chilled martini glasses with a strawberry slice on the rim.
For a fun twist, I sometimes add a splash of champagne on top for a sparkling version. This gives the drink a festive touch that’s perfect for holiday toasts.
If fresh strawberries aren’t available, frozen ones work great too. They actually help create that perfect slushy texture without watering down the drink.
When making these for a crowd, I prepare a large batch and keep it in a pitcher in the freezer. This way the drinks stay cold but don’t completely freeze.
The sweet-tart balance of this daiquiri makes it appealing to almost everyone at your Memorial Day barbecue. It’s refreshing enough for hot weather but festive enough for a special occasion.
12) Citrus Vodka Twist
The Citrus Vodka Twist is one of my favorite Memorial Day cocktails to serve at backyard gatherings. It’s refreshing, easy to make, and has that perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors.
I start with 2 ounces of quality vodka as the base. Then I add equal parts fresh lemon and lime juice (about half an ounce of each) for that zesty citrus punch.
A splash of orange liqueur adds depth and a hint of sweetness. I usually use Cointreau, but Triple Sec works great too if that’s what you have on hand.
For sweetness, I add a small amount of simple syrup. You can adjust this based on how sweet you like your drinks. I find that about half an ounce is perfect for my taste.
Fresh ingredients make all the difference in this cocktail. I always squeeze my citrus juices right before mixing rather than using bottled versions.
To serve, I fill a shaker with ice, add all ingredients, and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds. This creates the perfect chill and dilution.
I like to strain it into a martini glass and garnish with a twist of lemon or lime peel. The oils from the peel add an amazing aroma that enhances the drinking experience.
For a festive Memorial Day touch, try adding a few blueberries as a garnish alongside your citrus twist. The red, white, and blue theme is always a hit at holiday gatherings!
13) Vanilla Vodka Creamsicle
The Vanilla Vodka Creamsicle is a sweet, nostalgic treat that brings me back to childhood summers. It’s perfect for Memorial Day celebrations when you want something refreshing yet indulgent.
I start with 2 ounces of vanilla vodka as the base. The vanilla flavor adds warmth and depth that regular vodka just can’t match.
For the creamsicle effect, I mix in 1 ounce of orange juice and 1 ounce of cream or half-and-half. This creates that classic orange-and-vanilla combination we all love.
A splash of simple syrup helps balance the flavors, though you can adjust this depending on how sweet you like your drinks. I sometimes add a few drops of orange bitters to give it more complexity.
Shake everything with ice until it’s frosty cold, then strain into a pretty glass. I like to garnish with an orange wheel and maybe a little vanilla bean if I’m feeling fancy.
This cocktail is super versatile for Memorial Day gatherings. It works as a dessert drink after your barbecue or as a refreshing sipper while you’re lounging by the pool.
My friends always request these when they come over for holiday weekends. The creamy texture and familiar flavor combination make it a crowd-pleaser that’s not too complicated to mix up in batches.
14) Cherry Vodka Cooler
The Cherry Vodka Cooler is one of my favorite summer cocktails to serve on Memorial Day. It’s refreshing, pretty, and so easy to make!
This drink combines tart cherry juice with smooth vodka for a perfect balance of flavors. I like using a premium vodka for the best taste, but any good quality vodka works well.
To make this cooler, I mix 2 ounces of vodka with 4 ounces of cherry juice in a tall glass filled with ice. Then I top it with a splash of club soda for some refreshing bubbles.
For an extra special touch, I garnish with fresh cherries and a lime wedge. The bright red color makes it a perfect patriotic drink for your Memorial Day celebration.
If you want to make a pitcher for guests, simply multiply the ingredients. One bottle of vodka can make about 12-15 drinks depending on how strong you like them.
I sometimes add a hint of lime juice to cut through the sweetness. Just a squeeze is enough to enhance the flavors without overpowering the cherry.
For a fancier version, try using cherry-infused vodka. You can buy it or make your own by soaking cherries in vodka for several days.
This cocktail pairs wonderfully with grilled foods, making it ideal for your Memorial Day barbecue. Your guests will love this crowd-pleasing drink!
15) Peach Vodka Nectar
Peach Vodka Nectar is the perfect summer drink for Memorial Day celebrations. I love how this cocktail combines sweet peach flavors with smooth vodka for a refreshing experience.
To make this drink, I start with 2 ounces of quality vodka in a shaker filled with ice. Then I add 1 ounce of peach nectar and a splash of fresh lemon juice for balance.
Fresh ingredients make all the difference here. I sometimes use real peach puree instead of store-bought nectar when peaches are in season.
A dash of simple syrup sweetens it just enough without overpowering the natural peach flavor. Shake everything well until the shaker feels ice-cold in your hands.
I strain this peachy mixture into a chilled martini glass for a sophisticated presentation. For a more casual vibe, it works great over ice in a highball glass too.
The finishing touch is important! I garnish with a fresh peach slice on the rim or floating on top. Sometimes I add a small sprig of mint for color contrast and aroma.
This cocktail’s beautiful peachy hue makes it visually stunning for your Memorial Day table. The color reminds me of summer sunsets – perfect for holiday weekend celebrations.
For a fun variation, I sometimes add a splash of sparkling water on top to give it some fizz and lighten it up for hot weather sipping.
