15 Labor Day Cocktails and Mocktails to Toast the End of Summer

No one wants to invest in copper mugs for 40 people, but copper mugs for 4 is totally do-able! And once you have the mugs, the Moscow Mule is seconds away. Even if you don't have the traditional vessel, the drink is bright and delicious and goes great with grilled foods.

Mojitos are one of those drinks that are impossible for crowds, all that muddling! So take advantage of your smaller gathering to indulge in this refreshing and delicious drink.

No one will miss the booze if you serve this pink "champagne" cocktail. A perfect pairing for the appetizer portion of your gathering, and super brunch-friendly.

If you are going with a tropical theme to stretch out those final days of summer, this alcohol-free tiki drink is a great way to let everyone have one last umbrella drink. Watch the video to see how it's made.

If you are doing any sort of Mexican food as part of your Labor Day celebration, and we certainly hope you are, the beverage question often comes down to beer or margarita? To which we say, why choose? This beer margarita is the best of both worlds.

Citrusy and refreshing cucumber punch is a great choice if the weather where you are tends to be hot for Labor Day.

A mint julep always feels like a party, even if it's alcohol-free!

Never turn your back on a classic. If the Shirley Temple King has taught us anything, a great Shirley is nothing to sneeze at. And you'll be surprised how popular they are with the grown-ups who might be relishing a bit of nostalgia.

If you have the grill going for your Labor Day party, then you are ahead of the game for a delicious twist on a traditional grapefruit paloma. Grilling the grapefruit brings out its natural sweetness and the smoky flavor really works beautifully with this cocktail. Check out the video.

If you love a Sonic Cherry Lime, this Cherry Bomb cocktail is going to be a new favorite. Amped up with rum, always a festive tipple, it is like a Shirley Temple all grown up.

While we always encourage responsible consumption, we also know you aren't going anywhere, and there is no better drink to limit to "at home" than a Long Island Iced Tea. It's the one we recommend when people are just going to want one drink. But take it slow, folks, it packs a real punch!

Chances are your small gathering this year may include some backyard gaming. An old-fashioned Pimm's Cup is the ideal beverage to accompany your diversions, whether it is bocce or croquet or a good game of horseshoes. Cheerio! Toodle pip!

Use up the last of summer's watermelon to make a thirst-quenching pitcher of colorful margaritas.

Looking for more of a martini vibe? Do you get that fall chill in the air by the time Labor Day rolls around? This citrus and whiskey cocktail will be just the ticket!

Finally, you know fall has arrived when everything shifts to Pumpkin Spice, so we couldn't resist offering up this pumpkin spice cocktail. This also could count as a drinkable dessert for the adults after the kids are off to bed and the night turns cool.