Festival season’s calling, and it’s not whispering. It’s shouting in technicolour. Whether you’re dancing in a field, vibing in a warehouse, or soaking up rooftop beats, your drink game needs to match the energy. That’s why we’ve pulled together the ultimate list of festival cocktails, drinks ideas, and festival hacks to keep you cool, fuelled, and flavour-packed all weekend long. 

Skip the queues. Save your cash. Sip like you own the place. These festival cocktail recipes are made for batching, stashing, and showing off. Let’s go. 

Festival Cocktails

When it comes to festival cocktails, think light, bright, and built for the long haul. You want drinks that refresh, not wreck. That bring the flavour, not the faff. And most importantly, cocktails that can be made in batches, bottled up, and poured out like a pro. 

Here are five Monkey-approved mixes that’ll turn your tent into the VIP bar. 

Ginger Monkey 

Zingy. Zesty. Zero stress. The Ginger Monkey is your go-to for a no-fuss, high-reward cocktail. Monkey Shoulder, ginger ale, and a hint of orange, batch it in a bottle and you’re golden. It’s the ultimate cooler companion. 

Get the Ginger Monkey recipe here

Lazy Old Fashioned 

Old school but make it effortless. This stripped-back twist on the classic Old Fashioned is smooth, bold, and built for batching. Just Monkey Shoulder, sugar syrup, and bitters. Stir it up, bottle it, and sip like a boss. 

Get the Lazy Old Fashioned recipe here

Monkey Piña Colada 

Tastes like a tropical holiday. The Monkey Colada is a whisky-powered remix of the classic Piña Colada; fruity, creamy, and unapologetically bold. Made with Monkey Shoulder Original, coconut cream, pineapple juice, and a dose of lime, it’s a slushie-style cocktail that’s perfect for batching and blending ahead of time. No blender? No problem, shake it up and serve it tall. Garnish with pineapple if you’re feeling extra. 

Get the Monkey Colada recipe here

Show Me The Monkey 

Fruity, refreshing, and built for the beat. The Show Me The Monkey cocktail blends Monkey Shoulder Original with Drambuie, cloudy apple juice, lime juice, and fresh mint. It’s like sipping a Speyside orchard under the sun. Batch it up, shake it down, and serve it tall with a slice of orange and a hit of mint. Bonus tip: smack the mint before adding, it unlocks the flavour like magic. 

Get the Show Me The Monkey recipe here

Monkey Splash 

Low effort, high impact. The Monkey Splash is a fizzy, fruity refresher that’s perfect for daytime sipping. Monkey Shoulder, soda water, and orange wedges. Crisp, clean, and festival fresh. 

Get the Monkey Splash recipe here

Festival Drinks Hacks, Tips & Tricks 

You’ve got the cocktails. Now let’s talk survival. Check out how to keep your drinks cool, your crew hydrated, and your vibe immaculate with our festival drinks hacks, tips, and tricks.

• Freeze your bottles: Batch your cocktails, freeze them overnight, and let them double as ice packs in your cooler. 

• Insulated flasks: Not just for coffee. These bad boys keep your drinks cold for hours, and they’re spill-proof. 

• Hydration station: Keep your energy up and your head clear - sip water regularly throughout the day. Your body (and your dance moves) will thank you. 

• Pack smart: Bring reusable cups, straws, and a mini funnel for easy pouring. 

• Sun protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Because burnt isn’t a vibe. 

• Weatherproof your fit: Poncho, boots, and layers. Festivals are unpredictable, your outfit shouldn’t be. 

Fun In The Sun This Festival Season 

Festival season is more than music, it’s a full-sensory experience. And with these festival cocktail drink ideas, you’re not just showing up, you’re showing out. Whether you’re mixing up a Monkey Colada or passing around a Lazy Old Fashioned, you’re bringing the flavour, the fun, and the flair. 

Want more cocktail inspo? Head over to our Cocktails Page and dive into the full Monkey Shoulder mixology universe. 

And hey, drink responsibly, stay hydrated, and always check the festival rules before bringing your own drinks. Now go make some memories. 

FAQs 

What to bring to a festival? 

Essentials: tickets, ID, water bottle, sunscreen, sunglasses, weatherproof gear, snacks, reusable cup, and your pre-batched Monkey cocktails (if allowed). Bonus points for a portable speaker and a killer playlist. 

How to keep drinks cold at a festival? 

• Freeze your cocktails before packing. 

• Use insulated bottles or flasks. 

• Bring a soft cooler with ice packs. 

• Keep drinks in the shade and wrap them in a wet towel for extra chill.