Summer backyard BBQs are classic. But they could use a glow-up. If you’re tired of tossing out cans of soda like you’re working concessions at a T-ball game, try a spritz bar. It’s cool, refreshing, and totally alcohol-optional.
Setting Up Your Spritz Bar
All you need to get started are a few simple home bar essential ingredients, party glassware, and a bit of creative flair. Think coffee bar cart on summer vacation.
Essential Ingredients
Summer cocktails usually follow a simple formula: something fizzy, something fruity, and a flavored syrup that takes it to the next level. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Bubbles: Sparkling water, tonic, or a flavored soda
- Juice: Blood orange, pineapple, or anything tropical
- Syrups: Elderflower, ginger, or rosemary
Must-Have Tools and Glassware
You don’t need much, just a few home bar essentials to keep things smooth, stylish, and self-serve.
- A muddler (or long spoon) for mixing
- A few carafes or pitchers for all those yummy mixers
- A variety of glassware—the more eclectic, the better
- A big bucket of ice with tongs to beat the summer heat
Garnishes and Extras
Garnishes are where the fun really kicks in. Think sliced citrus, frozen berries, cucumber ribbons, or fresh herbs. Pop them into little bowls or jars so guests can grab what they like.
Want a few drink garnish ideas that are a bit extra? Try a salt rim, edible flowers, or herb-infused ice cubes.
Easy and Crowd-Pleasing Spritz Recipes
There’s no wrong way to build a spritz, but it never hurts to have a few easy mocktail recipes on hand. Here are a few combos that never fail.
Floral or Fruity Variations
Light, fizzy, and a little fancy.
- Grapefruit Soda + Elderflower Syrup + Lemon Wedge: Bright and floral with just the right amount of bite
- White Peach Juice + Soda Water + Mint: Sweet, subtle, and super refreshing
- Strawberry + Orange + Soda Water: Easy to batch and big on flavor
Savory Spritz Drinks
If sweets are not your thing, savory spritzes bring that crisp, garden-fresh vibe without the sugar crash.
- Cucumber Juice + Tonic + Lime + Basil: Cool, clean, and totally spa-worthy
- Tomato Juice + Soda Water + Celery Salt Rim: Like a bubbly, brunch-worthy Bloody Mary
- Ginger + Lemon + Sparkling Water: Equal parts zingy and refreshing
Hosting Tip: Keep a cooler nearby with extras for anyone who wants to add some kick to their spritz. Or turn your juice lineup into an easy summer sangria. There are plenty of delicious DIY drinks & cocktails you can create to keep you, and your guests cool & refreshed this summer.
Build Your Own Spritz Bar Set Up
Your setup doesn’t need to be fancy, just easy to navigate. Keep things in zones. Mixers and juice on one side, ice and glasses in the middle, and garnishes on the end. So, guests can mix and mingle, keeping things moving without crowding the table.
Style Ideas to Elevate the Experience
No bar cart? No problem. Any surface works when you’ve got the right details doing the heavy lifting.
Spritz Bar Setup Inspiration
Start with a linen cloth or lightweight runner to ground the space. Then, build it out with playful, practical layers:
- A breadboard or lazy Susan to show off garnishes and syrups.
- A tiered dessert tray for glassware or fruit.
- A vintage wine crate for stacking cups or napkins.
- A vase or pitcher to add height.
- A Bluetooth speaker hidden in a planter (yes, really) with your go-to playlist queued up.
Summer Décor Touches
Now’s your chance to sneak in a bit of personality:
- Toss citrus in a colander instead of a bowl (bonus points for rainbow order).
- Snip herbs from the garden and pop them in tiny jars like a mini bouquet bar.
- Tuck twinkle lights into a mason jar if you’re short on outlets.
- Write your signature spritz on a chalkboard, mirror, or even the glass door with a dry-erase marker.
- Add drink stirrers with flair: glitter toppers, paper umbrellas, or tiny flags.
Cheers to the Spritz Bar Life
Some nights feel like they’re made for magic. A spritz bar sets the scene: fizz in your glass, soft lights overhead, and that golden glow that makes summer feel like a movie.
When the season winds down, choose from one of our many storage unit sizes for your spritz bar essentials and pick up right where you left off next year.
