How to Throw an End-of-Summer Cocktail Soiree

The sun is setting on summer…and what better way to say goodbye to long days than with a Sunset Soiree! If you’re looking for the perfect cocktail party theme for a final hurrah, this is the one to beat. From warm color palettes to summer cocktails, here’s how to make it happen.

First, embrace the summer sunset theme with a deliciously warm color palette. Think orange, pink, gold, and purple—colors that invoke memories of sunsets on the beach. Use these colors in your tablecloths (bonus points for elevating the scene with fabric over plastic), plates, and napkins.  Don’t forget some eye-catching cups in sunset colors, too!

Next, set the perfect ambiance with some twinkle lights in warm tones and summery elements of your choice. Depending on how you want the theme to lean, you could go for seashells and dolphins, pineapples and leis, or sunflowers and strawberries—you get the idea.

If you do want to provide some solid food, keep things simple and light. You can serve appetizers like bruschetta, kabobs, and a charcuterie board or a refreshing salad bar with seasonal ingredients. Either way, don’t let the food overshadow the star of the show: your cocktails!

Incorporate citrus and seasonal flavors to keep your cocktails in line with your theme. If you have a special talent for mixing drinks, whip up your own signature cocktail by adding seasonal fruit to vodka or putting a twist on a classic.

But if you do need some inspiration, here’s our Sunset Soiree drink of choice: The Summer Sunset Cocktail from Food Wine Sunshine. You can easily adjust the number of servings on the recipe card for a customized recipe, but here’s how to make this tasty drink for 20.

Ingredients

•       Ice
•       30 oz plain vodka
•       40 oz peach schnapps
•       40 oz cold lemonade
•       40 oz cold orange juice
•       40 oz cold cranberry juice

Summer Sunset Cocktail

1.     Fill a large beverage dispenser at least a quarter of the way with ice.
2.     Pour in the vodka and lemonade and stir.
3.     Add the orange juice and cranberry juice.
4.     Top with peach schnapps to create that sunset look!
5.     Serve and enjoy!

While this is sure to be a party hit, don’t forget to include a nice variety of batch cocktails for guests to choose from, as well as some non-alcoholic options for non-drinkers and designated drivers. You can’t go wrong with sparkling waters, mocktails, or summery iced teas.

And you’re done! Your Summer Soiree is ready to end the season with a grand finale and create the perfect atmosphere for lasting memories.