The Backyard BBQ Drink Lineup You Need This Summer

Summer bbqs are the best with the best drinks from Stir Sessons. Try Classic Margarita, Classic Paloma or a Raspberry Lemonade to excite your guests.

Every BBQ has the same mix of people. 

The tequila lover, the beer drinker, the friend who wants something fruity, and the one who isn't drinking but still wants something more exciting than water. 

The challenge is finding drinks that keep everyone happy without turning the host into a full-time bartender. The good news? You don't need a dozen mixers or a fully stocked bar cart—just the right lineup. 

For the Tequila Person: Classic Margarita or Paloma

They showed up with their own tequila. You know who they are.

Classic Margarita

  • clean, citrusy, balanced

  • pairs with blanco or reposado tequila the best (in our opinion)

  • serve over ice with a salted rim if you're feeling fancy

  • crowd-approved, no notes

Classic Paloma

  • grapefruit-forward, lighter than a margarita

  • for the tequila person who wants to pace themselves

  • crisp and refreshing next to BBQ food

Give them both options. They'll respect you for it.

One more idea...spice either of these up with a great Mescal instead.

For the Vodka Person: Raspberry Lemonade or Cranberry Mule

This person wants something refreshing but doesn't want to commit to tequila.

Raspberry Lemonade + Vodka

  • bright, tart, easy to drink

  • works in a big cup with a lot of ice

  • make a pitcher — this one disappears fast

Cranberry Mule + Vodka

  • tart and slightly spicy from the ginger notes

  • feels like a real cocktail without the effort

  • pairs well with grilled food — the tartness cuts through the richness

For the Rum Person: Mango Mai Tai or Piña Colada

There's always one. And they deserve a good drink.

Mango Mai Tai + Dark Rum

  • tropical, fruity, smooth

  • feels festive next to a grill

  • works for anyone who likes fruit-forward flavors

Piña Colada + Coconut Rum

  • smooth, creamy coconut-pineapple flavor

  • best served with extra ice on a hot BBQ afternoon

  • pairs weirdly well with grilled pineapple if you're going full commitment

For the Non-Drinker: Any Flavor, Mocktail Mode

This one matters.

Too many BBQs have exactly zero good options for people who aren't drinking.

Every Stir Sessions flavor works perfectly without any alcohol.

  • same great taste

  • just water and ice

  • no one misses out

  • no one feels like a second-class BBQ citizen

Make a mocktail station. People will use it more than you expect.

For the Person Who Doesn't Really Have a Drink: Watermelon Margarita

They'll drink whatever, but nothing sounds right. They end up with warm beer they don't really want.

Hand them a Watermelon Margarita.

  • juicy and sweet without being heavy

  • easy to sip

  • works with tequila or vodka

  • tastes like something they'd actually order at a bar

This is the gateway drink. It converts people.

The Real Win

When the drinks are easy, you're not stuck being the bartender all afternoon.

You're at the grill. You're in a chair. You're doing what you came to do.

Let the packets handle it.

Rip. Mix. Sip.