When it comes to hosting a summer cookout, choosing the best drinks to serve at a backyard BBQ can make or break your budget—and your guests’ experience. You want options that are refreshing, crowd-pleasing, and wallet-friendly. Luckily, you don’t have to sacrifice flavor or fun to stay on budget.
Whether you’re planning a Fourth of July bash, a laid-back weekend cookout, or a birthday party in your backyard, this guide has you covered with affordable, delicious drink ideas that won’t drain your wallet. We’ll explore easy DIY recipes, budget-friendly product suggestions, and clever tips to help you keep the cooler full without overspending.
Let’s dive into the best drinks to serve at a backyard BBQ—and how to serve them smart.
Why Choosing Budget-Friendly BBQ Drinks Matters
Drinks add up fast. Bottled beverages, alcohol, mixers, and juices can quietly consume your food budget. But with a little planning and some smart swaps, you can:
- Save $30–$50 per BBQ
- Avoid last-minute grocery store runs
- Serve up impressive, thirst-quenching drinks for guests of all ages
Tip: Make drinks in batches to save on ingredients and minimize single-use packaging.
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Best Non-Alcoholic Drinks to Serve at a Backyard BBQ Without Blowing Your Budget
1. Iced Tea Bar with Simple Syrups
Looking for summer drink ideas that are crowd-pleasing, affordable, and totally customizable? An iced tea bar is the perfect solution. Skip the pricey bottled teas and instead brew a few pitchers of black, green, or herbal tea ahead of time. Let guests mix and match their drinks with DIY flavored syrups—it’s fun, interactive, and easy on your budget.
Why It’s a Must-Have:
- Cuts costs compared to canned or bottled beverages
- Guests can tailor sweetness and flavor to their liking
- Looks impressive with minimal effort
- Reduces waste with reusable containers and cups
How to Make Your Own Flavored Syrups:
- Boil 1 cup sugar with 1 cup water until dissolved.
- Add flavor of choice while still warm:
- 🍋 Lemon peel
- 🌿 Fresh mint
- 🍓 Berries
- 🌶️ Sliced ginger
- Let cool completely, then strain and store in mason jars.
Serving Tip:
Set out the teas and syrups in glass pitchers or a beverage dispenser, and label each one with a cute chalkboard sign. Use reusable mason jars with lids and straws to keep bugs out and cut down on waste.
Recommended Products:
- 🧊 Glass Beverage Dispenser with Spigot – Holds large batches, easy to clean, and perfect for outdoor entertaining.
- 🥤 Mason Jars with Lids and Reusable Straws – Ideal for serving eco-friendly drinks with style.
Pro Tip: Make the syrups the day before and chill overnight for better flavor and less last-minute prep.
2. Infused Water Station
If you’re looking for refreshing summer drinks that please a crowd without the sugar crash (or price tag), an infused water station is a no-brainer. Not only is it incredibly easy to set up, but it also looks elegant and encourages guests to stay hydrated in the heat.
Why It’s a Smart Move:
- Water is practically free
- Fresh herbs and fruits cost pennies per serving
- Offers a healthier, more elegant alternative to soda
- Naturally low in sugar, dye-free, and kid-approved
Top Flavor Combos to Try:
- 🥒 Cucumber + Mint – Crisp and cooling
- 🍓 Strawberry + Basil – Fruity with a fragrant twist
- 🍋 Lemon + Orange + Lime – A citrusy crowd-pleaser
How to Set It Up:
Use a clear glass beverage dispenser so guests can see the beautiful layers of fruit and herbs. Add ice just before serving to keep it chilled. For larger gatherings, offer two or three variations in matching pitchers or dispensers for a colorful drink station that’s Instagram-ready.
Recommended Products:
- 💧 Glass Infusion Pitcher or Dispenser – Perfect for displaying fruit-infused water beautifully
- 🍹 Reusable Plastic Cups with Lids – Great for outdoor use and mess-free sipping
Serving Tip: Set out small signs or chalkboard labels so guests know what’s in each pitcher. Bonus points for adding edible flowers for a fancy touch!
Related Post:
➡️ Seasonal Produce Guide: What to Buy Each Month – Choose the freshest fruits and herbs in season to flavor your water naturally and affordably.
3. Homemade Lemonade & Limeade
When it comes to cheap party drinks that everyone loves, you can’t beat classic lemonade or limeade made from scratch. Freshly squeezed citrus not only tastes brighter and cleaner than store-bought mixes—it’s also budget-friendly, especially when lemons and limes are in peak summer season.
Why It’s a Crowd Favorite:
- Citrus is affordable and easy to prep in large batches
- No artificial flavors or preservatives
- Easy to adjust for sweetness or tartness
- Looks beautiful served with fresh fruit slices
Budget Tip:
Buy lemons and limes in bulk at warehouse clubs, produce markets, or discount stores. You’ll often get twice the quantity for half the price compared to supermarket bags.
How to Make It Shine:
- 🍋 Juice fresh lemons or limes
- 🍯 Mix with water and a sweetener of choice (sugar, honey, or agave)
- ❄️ Chill and serve over ice
- ✨ Add club soda for a sparkling twist without the soda price
Serving Tip: Add lemon slices and a few sprigs of mint for a pretty garnish and refreshing flavor. Store extras in mason jars so guests can grab a refill easily.
Recommended Products:
- 🍋 Handheld Citrus Juicer – Makes juicing quick and mess-free
- 🫙 Large Glass Mason Jars with Lids – Ideal for storing lemonade in the fridge or transporting to your picnic or BBQ
- 🧊 Drink Dispenser with Ice Core – Keeps your lemonade chilled without watering it down
Pro Tip: Make a batch of lemonade and a batch of limeade, then mix them 50/50 for a zesty citrus punch that’s totally unique.
Related Post:
➡️ Affordable Make-Ahead Picnic Salads That Travel Well – Pair your lemonade with light, travel-friendly salads for the perfect summer party spread.
4. DIY Slushies for Kids (and Kids at Heart)
Looking for cheap party drinks with a fun twist? DIY slushies are an instant hit for kids—and adults who still love a good brain freeze. With just a few ingredients and a blender, you can whip up icy treats that taste better (and cost far less) than anything from a store or ice cream truck.
Why They’re a Must at Summer Parties:
- Only three ingredients—super budget-friendly
- No added dyes or mystery flavors
- Easy to make in big batches or freeze ahead
- Customizable for all ages and taste preferences
How to Make Basic Slushies:
- Add 2 cups ice, 1 cup water, and ½ can juice concentrate to a blender.
- Blend until smooth and slushy.
- Serve immediately with a straw or spoon.
Best Flavor Combos to Try:
- 🍒 Cherry + Lemon – Sweet and sour with a punch
- 🍇 Grape + Lime – Bold and zesty
- 🍉 Watermelon + Mint – Ultra-refreshing and lightly sweet
Pro Tip:
Pour slushies into freezer-safe reusable pouches or mason jars with lids, then freeze in advance for a grab-and-go treat. Perfect for cooling off at outdoor parties or picnics.
Recommended Products:
- 🧊 High-Powered Blender – Strong enough to crush ice easily for a smooth texture
- 🥤 Resealable Freezer Slush Pouches – Great for making kid-friendly treats in advance
- 🫙 Plastic Mason Jar Cups with Lids and Straws – Spill-proof and fun to serve in
Related Post:
➡️ Top Picnic Must-Haves for Outdoor Dining This Summer – Get everything you need to host an outdoor feast with style and zero stress.
5. Big-Batch Cocktails (aka Party Punches)
If you’re looking for cheap alcoholic drinks for parties that still impress your guests, go for big-batch cocktails. Instead of stocking up on pricey canned drinks or running a full bar, choose one or two signature punches that can be made ahead and served easily. You’ll save money, reduce waste, and keep the vibe fun and relaxed.
Why It’s Budget-Smart:
- One or two liquors go a long way in a large punch
- Uses seasonal fruit and mixers you may already have
- Guests serve themselves—no bartender needed
Crowd-Pleasing Combos to Try:
- 🍉 Watermelon Rum Punch – Blend fresh watermelon, white rum, lime juice, and club soda for a juicy tropical hit
- 🍋 Spiked Arnold Palmer – Mix equal parts lemonade and sweet tea, then add a splash (or two) of vodka for an adult twist
- 🍍 Pineapple Coconut Punch – Combine pineapple juice, coconut water, and spiced rum for a beachy vibe
Serving Tip:
Use a large drink dispenser or punch bowl with a ladle and sturdy cups. It cuts down on trash from single-use cans and bottles while creating a festive focal point on your drink table.
Recommended Products:
- 🍹 Large Glass Drink Dispenser with Spigot – Holds 2–3 gallons and looks beautiful on a buffet table
- 🥄 Stainless Steel Punch Ladle – Great for easy serving without spills
- 🥤 Reusable Party Cups with Lids – Eco-friendly, washable, and spill-resistant
Pro Tip: Freeze extra juice or fruit chunks into ice cubes to keep your punch cold without watering it down.
6. DIY Sangria on a Shoestring Budget
Sangria is one of the best summer alcoholic drinks because it’s festive, fruity, and incredibly affordable to make. With just a few ingredients and a little fridge time, you can whip up a party-ready pitcher that feels way fancier than its price tag suggests.
This is the ultimate budget entertainer’s hack—turning one bottle of wine into a full punch bowl of flavor-packed refreshment.
Basic Budget-Friendly Sangria Recipe:
- 🍷 1 bottle of cheap red or white wine (Merlot, Pinot Grigio, or whatever’s on sale)
- 🍊 2 cups orange juice (no pulp works best)
- 🥤 1 cup club soda or lemon-lime soda for some sparkle
- 🍋 Sliced citrus (lemons, limes, oranges) + berries for color and flavor
Instructions:
Mix everything in a large pitcher or drink dispenser and refrigerate for 3–4 hours to let the flavors blend. Serve over ice and garnish with extra fruit slices.
Why It Works:
- Uses low-cost ingredients that stretch easily
- Can be customized with any seasonal fruit or juice
- Looks beautiful and tastes even better after chilling
🍷 For outdoor meals and summer picnics, keep things stylish and spill-free with our favorite stainless steel wine glasses—durable, elegant, and perfect for sipping in the sunshine.
Optional Add-Ins:
- A splash of brandy or triple sec for extra depth
- Frozen fruit instead of ice to keep drinks cold without dilution
- Fresh mint leaves for a bright twist
7. Spiked Seltzer Bar with DIY Mix-Ins
Skip the overpriced cans and create your own bubbly beverage station with this budget-friendly take on hard seltzer. A DIY seltzer bar not only saves money but gives guests the freedom to mix and match flavors—and control the alcohol level to their liking.
It’s a customizable, low-effort crowd-pleaser and one of the easiest best summer alcoholic drinks to prep on a budget.
Here’s What You’ll Need:
- 🥤 Club soda or flavored sparkling water – Buy in bulk for extra savings
- 🍸 1 bottle of vodka or gin – Choose a clean-tasting brand that mixes well
- 🍋 Mix-ins – Citrus slices (lemon, lime, orange), frozen berries, cucumber rounds, fresh mint, or rosemary sprigs
Why It’s Smart:
- Cheaper than canned hard seltzers
- No sugar overload or artificial flavors
- Guests can customize alcohol strength and flavor
Setup Tip:
Lay out the mix-ins buffet-style and label them with cute chalkboard signs. Include a jigger or shot glass for measuring spirits and some fun straws or stirrers for a festive touch.
Recommended Products:
- 🧊 Sparkling Water Variety Pack – Flavored options like lime, grapefruit, or berry keep things interesting
- 🍸 Glass Cocktail Pitchers with Lids – Great for pre-mixed options or displaying mix-in waters
- 🍓 Reusable Stainless Steel Straws – Eco-friendly and party-ready
Pro Tip: Freeze your citrus slices or berries beforehand—they double as flavor and ice!
Smart Tips for Saving Money on BBQ Drinks
Serving a crowd doesn’t mean draining your wallet—especially when it comes to beverages. Whether you’re pouring lemonade for the kids or mixing up cocktails for adults, these clever tips will help you stretch your drink budget without sacrificing flavor or fun.
1. Buy in Bulk
Warehouse stores like Costco or Sam’s Club are your best friend when it comes to stocking up. Grab large packs of soda, juice, and even affordable wines or spirits to slash your per-ounce cost.
- 🍷 Buying a 1.5L bottle of wine often costs less than two 750mL bottles
- 🧃 Juice in gallon jugs is cheaper (and has less packaging waste)
2. Skip the Individual Cans
Pre-packaged drinks are convenient but pricey. Instead, buy larger bottles and serve them in pitchers or dispensers. Set out reusable cups or mason jars to cut down on waste and costs.
- 🥤 Glass Beverage Dispensers with Spigot – Perfect for sweet tea, lemonade, or sangria
- 🧂 Add chalkboard labels to make your DIY drink station pop
3. Make Ahead & Freeze
Prep lemonade, sweet tea, or fruit punch a few days in advance and freeze some in ice cube trays. These flavor-packed cubes keep drinks cold without diluting them like regular ice.
- ❄️ Freeze herbs or sliced fruit into cubes for a fancy touch
- 🧊 Store batches in freezer-safe containers and thaw the night before the BBQ
4. BYOB for Extras
Hosting a backyard BBQ for adults? Don’t be afraid to make it partially BYOB. Let guests bring their favorite beer, wine, or spirit, and you can supply non-alcoholic options and one crowd-pleasing cocktail.
- 🍸 This keeps your costs down and gives guests what they love
- 🥂 Great for potluck-style gatherings where everyone contributes
Bonus Tip:
Reuse what you already have! Clean out jars or pitchers from the pantry and get creative with what you own instead of buying new.
Avoid These Common Backyard BBQ Drink Mistakes
Even the most thoughtfully planned backyard BBQ can fall flat if the drink station isn’t on point. Save yourself the hassle (and the extra cost) by steering clear of these common summer party pitfalls.
1. Overbuying Soda
It’s tempting to stock up on soda, but most guests will gravitate toward lighter, more refreshing options in the heat—like iced tea, lemonade, or infused water. Instead of spending a fortune on sugary cans, prep a couple of crowd-pleasing pitchers.
- 💡 Try offering two soda options max and focus on DIY drink stations instead
- 🥒 Bonus: Infused water is cheaper, prettier, and healthier
2. Forgetting the Ice
This is a classic BBQ blunder. Drinks warm up fast in summer heat, and you’ll need way more ice than you think—especially if your guests are serving themselves.
- 🧊 Plan on one 10-lb bag of ice per 4–5 guests
- 🧁 Freeze water in muffin tins or large containers for longer-lasting cubes
- 🥶 Tip: Start making and storing ice in freezer bags up to a week in advance
3. Not Labeling Drinks
Unlabeled drinks confuse guests and lead to waste. People may avoid trying your amazing iced hibiscus tea or watermelon punch if they don’t know what it is—or worse, think it’s something they don’t like.
- ✍️ Use chalkboard signs, hang tags, or printable labels
- 🍓 Mention key flavors and whether a drink is sweetened or contains alcohol
4. Relying Only on Bottled Drinks
Bottled sodas, waters, and cocktails may seem easy—but they cost more per serving and generate tons of trash. Opt for big-batch drinks in pitchers or dispensers and encourage guests to use reusable cups.
- 🌍 It’s a greener and more budget-friendly approach
- 💧 Serve drinks from glass jugs, mason jars, or recycled bottles
Pro Host Tip: Keep a small cooler or bucket filled with ice and tongs right next to your drink table so guests can refresh their cups without hunting for more ice.
Use Rakuten and BeFrugal to Save Even More
If you’re shopping online for drinkware, pitchers, or ingredients, don’t forget to use Rakuten and BeFrugal. Both platforms offer cash back at tons of grocery and kitchen retailers.
- Rakuten: Get a $30 bonus when you sign up and spend $30. Sign up for Rakuten here.
- BeFrugal: Get $10 back with your first $25 purchase. Sign up for BeFrugal here.
Tip: Stack coupons and cashback for big savings on items like drink dispensers, syrups, mixers, and bulk snacks.
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Bottom Line: Serve Great Drinks Without Spending a Fortune
The best drinks to serve at a backyard BBQ don’t have to come in fancy bottles or cost a small fortune. With a little creativity, you can whip up refreshing, delicious options for kids and adults alike—without busting your budget.
From sweet homemade lemonade to stylish sangria, there’s a smart, tasty solution for every type of guest. And when you shop smart, prep ahead, and make it fun, your backyard BBQ will be remembered for all the right reasons.
Cheers to great drinks, full bellies, and a budget that stays intact!
