6 Delicious & Fun Tailgating Drinks

What makes a tailgate? Some people say it’s the food: mouth-watering burgers, barbecue novelties, and side dishes as far as the eye can see. Others will tell you it’s the aspect of socialization and games to play.

But, here at BrüMate, we know the importance of good tailgating drinks. If you’re looking for inspiration when it comes to crafting your own tailgate cocktails and beverages, you’ve come to the right place.

Here, we’ve collected the best drinks for tailgating, from apple-flavored whiskey to tangy margaritas.

Table of Contents

1. Spiked Arnold Palmers

2. Apple Cider Whiskey

3. Mint Ginger Ale

4. Simple Margaritas

5. Hot Not Toddy

6. Don’t Forget Water!

6 Best Tailgating Drinks to Enjoy

Whether you’re a fan of a spiked iced tea and lemonade concoction or someone who enjoys a mocktail, this list is for you. Here are six of our must-have tailgating drinks for every big game.

1. Spiked Arnold Palmers

Wrap up summer with this golf course classic! By adding vodka to iced tea and lemonade, your Arnie Palmer turns into a John Daly (which means this drink is super easy to serve non-alcoholic as well).

This drink is definitely a fan favorite, so you’ll want to have plenty to share. Make enough for everyone using the BrüMate Backtap! This versatile backpack cooler is small enough to carry on your back, but large enough to carry up to three gallons of any sweet and refreshing drink.

Plus, this cooler is equipped with a tap for easy serving. Talk about a bonus!

2. Apple Cider Whiskey

For the cold game days, try an apple cider whiskey. Put a twist on a classic fall cider by pairing it with your favorite whiskey. This beverage is perfect for cooler fall game days when you need something toasty to warm your hands.

Use the BrüMate Nos’r to host your delicious whiskey tailgate drink. The Nos’r is the first insulated whiskey-nosing glass of its kind. Its durable stainless steel makes it the perfect vehicle for a boozy drink on a cold winter day.

Not into whiskey? No problem! Cider can be paired with plenty of other liquors such as bourbon and rum to make lots of variations on this fall drink. Or, enjoy your cider alone for a perfect fall beverage.

3. Mint Ginger Ale

Mint is a great thirst quencher for all your game-day festivities. For a simple drink that everyone will love, try a mint ginger ale with (or without) bourbon.

For all your sipping needs at the tailgate, keep your concoctions in the BrüMate Rocks Tumbler. This durable and versatile 12oz tumbler will keep your drink cold and your spirits high. Featuring a 100% leakproof lid, there will be no dreaded spills on game day. Just toss it in your bag and go!

4. Simple Margaritas

Every tequila-lover's dream: margaritas at every event. And yes, this includes your tailgate. With just a few ingredients, it’s easy to make a refreshing margarita for your entire cooler, or just for yourself. If you’re feeling generous and make enough for all, serve it in the BrüMate Growl’r.

This tumbler can fit 64 ounces of your prepped marg, and its triple-insulated shell will keep it cool for an entire 48 hours (just in case you want to keep the tailgating going after the game).

For a classic margarita, try out this recipe. Feeling bold? Use different juice flavors, drink it on the rocks, or create a slushy freeze (don’t forget to salt your rim!). After you prep your delicious drinks, you won’t want to forget the most essential part of any game day: tailgate gear! Rep your team’s colors from head to toe and don’t be afraid to go all out.

Your gear isn’t limited to just clothing and face paint. In fact, your tumblers can look game-day-ready too. Coordinate your insulated tumblers with your team’s colors. Need some ideas? Check out the BrüMate game day picks here!

5. Hot Not Toddy

While tailgates are often associated with alcohol, there are plenty of delicious non-alcoholic drinks that you can make to sip on to elevate the game day experience. Football season can be cold, so try out one of these delicious non-alcoholic warm beverages. From sweet hot chocolates to earthy Hot Not Toddy’s, there is something for everyone.

Carry your comforting, warm drink in a BrüMate Toddy 22oz. The special BevLock™ Technology ensures this tumbler is fully leakproof. The locking lid features a magnetic closure that keeps the lid open while you sip. Its handle is suitable for left and right-handed individuals, making it a perfect to-go cup for everyone!

6. Don’t Forget Water!

It’s crucial to stay hydrated while you tailgate. Along with all your crafted drinks for tailgating, don’t forget to pack water in the Rotera. This water bottle features TwistSip™ technology, meaning you don’t have to ever touch your straw to sip.

Plus, Rotera is completely leakproof and features a wide range of swappable silicone sleeves. You can rep your favorite team by outfitting your Rotera with a sleeve that matches your beloved team's colors!

Find Your Favorite Tailgate Gear at BrüMate

Whatever your taste is, there are plenty of tailgating drinks for you! So grab your ingredients and your favorite BrüMate drinkware and hit the lots! If you need some help finding the perfect BrüMate tumbler for your tailgating needs, check out our best sellers today. See you in the stands!