27 Refreshing Autumn Tailgating Cocktails to Get You Pumped for Game Day!

Sandra Walker

September 14, 2025

As football season kicks into high gear, tailgating enthusiasts are gearing up for a fun-filled season of grilling, socializing, and cheering on their favorite teams. However, what about those chilly fall days when a cold beer just won’t cut it? That’s where the Fall Tailgate Cocktail comes in – a game-changer for any tailgate party.

These cocktails are the perfect addition to any gathering, as they’re warm, comforting, and packed with fall flavors that will make you feel like you’re sipping on a cozy sweater. Whether you’re looking for something sweet, spicy, or just downright boozy, there’s a Fall Tailgate Cocktail out there for everyone. But what makes a great Fall Tailgate Cocktail? It all comes down to balance – finding the perfect combination of flavors that will warm you up without overpowering your taste buds.

Think cinnamon, nutmeg, apple cider, and bourbon. These ingredients work together to create a cocktail that’s both delicious and satisfying. So, whether you’re a seasoned tailgater or a newbie looking to up your game, it’s time to add some Fall Tailgate Cocktails to your repertoire. In this post, we’ll be sharing some of the best recipes out there, so grab your shaker and get ready to mix up something special.

Alabama Slammer

Alabama Slammer

Yielding to its rich history, the Alabama Slammer remains a beloved cocktail among enthusiasts of classic drinks. This iconic concoction, made with a combination of Southern Comfort, sloe gin, amaretto, and fresh orange juice, embodies the warmth and hospitality synonymous with the American South. As a slow-sipping indulgence, it perfectly captures the essence of transitioning from summer to fall’s crisp air.

While the Alabama Slammer shot may pack a punch, its cocktail counterpart truly shines as the ice melts, allowing the flavors to blend harmoniously and create a refreshing drink that is quintessentially southern. For those seeking a mouthwatering cocktail to elevate their tailgate parties this fall, the Alabama Slammer is undoubtedly worth giving a try!

Football Jello Shots

Football Jello Shots

Need to elevate your game-day festivities? Look no further than Football Jello Shots, the perfect portable cocktails for any tailgate party! These vibrant shots are a creative twist on traditional football-themed treats, inspired by your favorite teams. With the added convenience of making them ahead of time, you can focus on enjoying the game without worrying about last-minute preparations.

By using Ibotta app offers, you can even save money on essential ingredients like Smirnoff vodka and Bud Light beer, taking your tailgating experience to a whole new level. Whether you prefer fruity or boozy flavors, Football Jello Shots are sure to be a touchdown at your next gathering. So grab your shot glasses (or jumbo condiment containers) and get ready to celebrate with this fun and festive cocktail.

Apocalypse Bourbon Cocktail

Apocalypse Bourbon Cocktail

Crafted to perfection, the Apocalypse Bourbon Cocktail is a must-try for anyone who loves bourbon and wants to enjoy a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail during the fall season. This autumnal delight is perfect for tailgating parties or any other fall gatherings, and its simplicity makes it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced mixologists alike.

With just four simple ingredients, this cocktail can be shaken in a cocktail shaker or stirred in a glass, making it incredibly convenient to prepare. The rich and robust flavor of bourbon takes center stage in this cocktail, making it a favorite among bourbon lovers. According to the recipe, using a high-quality bourbon such as Woodford Reserve, Knob Creek, or Buffalo Trace will yield the best taste results.

If you’re looking for a new favorite bourbon cocktail, give the Apocalypse Bourbon Cocktail a try and experience its unique blend of flavors for yourself.

Apple Pie Moscow Mule

Apple Pie Moscow Mule

Drenched in the warm tones of autumn, the Apple Pie Moscow Mule is an ideal choice for fall tailgates and gatherings. The addition of apple cider and cinnamon simple syrup gives this twist on the classic Moscow Mule a sweet and spicy taste that evokes the flavors of a slice of apple pie. This versatile cocktail can be easily prepared in advance, as the cinnamon simple syrup can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for both individual servings and large gatherings alike.

Whether you’re looking to impress your guests with a unique and delicious cocktail or simply want to enjoy a taste of fall, the Apple Pie Moscow Mule is a must-try for anyone who loves the rich flavors of the season.

Tailgate Tea

Tailgate Tea

Understanding the essence of a great Fall tailgate party is all about creating an unforgettable experience for your guests, and what better way to do that than with a refreshing and flavorful cocktail? The Tailgate Tea is just the ticket, combining sweet tea with bourbon, orange juice, pineapple juice, and lemon juice in perfect harmony to create a taste sensation that’s sure to leave everyone impressed.

A crucial aspect of this cocktail’s success lies in its use of Red Diamond Sweet Tea, which boasts an authentic taste thanks to its simple recipe consisting only of tea leaves, water, and sugar. Whether you’re a bourbon enthusiast or not, the Tailgate Tea is remarkably versatile, allowing you to customize it according to everyone’s tastes. So why not give it a try and discover for yourself why it’s been crowned a game day winner?

The Tailgate Tea’s versatility also makes it an excellent choice for parties with varied preferences, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Sneaky Pete Drink

Sneaky Pete Drink

Make this fall season even more enjoyable with a refreshing and delicious Tailgate Cocktail recipe that’s sure to please any crowd. The Sneaky Pete Drink is a slushy concoction that perfectly blends sweet and tangy flavors, creating a taste experience that’s hard to resist. This cocktail is made with vodka, which is masterfully hidden by the rich flavors of cranberry juice, lemonade, orange juice, 7-Up, and Fresca. The result is a drink that’s both revitalizing and enjoyable on a crisp fall day.

In addition to its exceptional taste, this recipe also offers the convenience of being easy to prepare ahead of time. Simply mix all the ingredients together, pour them into an airtight container, and store it in the freezer until you’re ready to serve. This makes it perfect for tailgating parties or any other outdoor gathering where you want to provide your guests with a delightful drink experience.

So don’t hesitate to give the Sneaky Pete Drink a try and elevate your next fall party with its invigorating flavors.

Honeycrisp Apple Sangria

Honeycrisp Apple Sangria

Delight your guests with the perfect Fall Tailgate Cocktail – the Honeycrisp Apple Sangria! This mouthwatering concoction masterfully blends the rich flavors of red wine, brandy, cinnamon, and luscious honeycrisp apples to create a delightfully sweet and tangy drink that’s tailor-made for crisp autumn afternoons. The most wonderful aspect? It can be prepared in advance, allowing you to let the flavors meld together overnight for an even more enhanced result.

With its revitalizing taste and unbeatable flavor combination, the Honeycrisp Apple Sangria is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next tailgate gathering.

Meyer Lemon Whiskey Sour

Meyer Lemon Whiskey Sour

Varying from traditional whiskey sours, the Meyer Lemon Whiskey Sour brings a refreshing twist to this classic cocktail. Perfect for tailgate parties or any outdoor gathering, this seasonal cocktail is easy to make in large batches, making it ideal for serving crowds without having to worry about being stuck behind the bar all night.

The addition of fresh Meyer lemon juice gives the drink its distinct flavor, which is achieved by combining the citrusy taste of meyer lemons with the smoothness of whiskey. With a availability that spans from November through May, meyer lemons are easily accessible in most grocery stores during this time period, making it simple to get your hands on these unique ingredients.

Whether you’re looking for a low-maintenance cocktail option or simply something new and exciting to serve at your next fall gathering, the Meyer Lemon Whiskey Sour is definitely worth considering.

Drunken Pumpkin Latte

Drunken Pumpkin Latte

Not only does the ‘Drunken Pumpkin Latte’ make for an exceptional fall cocktail at any tailgate party, but its versatility also makes it perfect for various occasions. This mouth-watering drink is crafted with a unique blend of coffee, milk, pumpkin pie vodka, RumChata, sugar, and ground cinnamon, providing a delightful combination of flavors that will surely satisfy your guests’ taste buds.

Whether you’re looking to warm up around a campfire or serve a refreshing cocktail at a party, the ‘Drunken Pumpkin Latte’ is an excellent choice.

Hot Spiced Ale Flip

Hot Spiced Ale Flip

Loving the spirit of Fall tailgating, many of us seek out warm and comforting cocktails to enjoy while cheering on our favorite teams. The Hot Spiced Ale Flip is an excellent choice for this season, combining the rich flavors of spiced brown sugar syrup and spiced rum with ale, orange juice, and a whole egg to create a silky and indulgent drink with subtle hints of spice and citrus.

This classic cocktail is perfect for sipping on a chilly day, and its unique richness – courtesy of the egg – sets it apart from other beverages. Give the Hot Spiced Ale Flip a try and discover why it’s become a beloved favorite among tailgaters.

Apple Cider Sangria

Apple Cider Sangria

Zeroing in on the perfect cocktail for your fall tailgate party is easier than ever with the Apple Cider Sangria. This delightful mix of sauvignon blanc and apple cider is infused with the warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a truly seasonal taste experience that’s sure to impress. The addition of a festive rim of cinnamon and sugar on the Solo cup takes this drink to the next level, making it not only delicious but also visually appealing and perfect for snapping a quick photo.

Plus, you can prepare it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to mature together over 24 hours for an even more complex and satisfying sip. We’re confident that your guests will be clamoring for the recipe all season long, so don’t be surprised if it becomes a crowd favorite!

Cranberry Orange Bourbon Cocktail

Cranberry Orange Bourbon Cocktail

Packed with the flavors of the season, the Cranberry Orange Bourbon Cocktail is an ideal addition to any Fall gathering or tailgate party. The harmonious blend of cranberry juice, fresh squeezed orange juice, and bourbon creates a unique and refreshing taste that perfectly captures the essence of the holiday season. A delicate sprig of rosemary adds not only a beautiful touch but also a lovely pine aroma, elevating this uncomplicated cocktail to new heights.

This delightful concoction is perfect for both bourbon aficionados and whiskey enthusiasts, making it a must-try for anyone seeking a delicious and easy-to-make cocktail for their next Fall event.

Caramel Apple Vodka Martini

Caramel Apple Vodka Martini

Wrapped in autumnal flavors, the Caramel Apple Vodka Martini is an ideal choice for a Fall tailgate party. This delightful cocktail combines caramel-flavored vodka with regular vodka and apple cider, resulting in a sweet and refreshing taste experience. The addition of caramel flavor not only adds depth to the drink but also balances out the crispness of the apple cider. To enhance its presentation, dried apple slices are used as a garnish, adding a nice touch of elegance.

Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat or simply want to indulge in a refreshing cocktail during the Fall season, this martini is sure to impress. It’s perfect for sipping while enjoying the crisp weather and cheering on your favorite team.

Candy Corn Moonshine Infusion

Candy Corn Moonshine Infusion

Rounding out your fall tailgate party with a unique and festive drink is easier than you think. The Candy Corn Moonshine Infusion is a fun twist on the classic moonshine that’s infused with the sweet and iconic candy corn flavor, making it a perfect fit for the season. This cocktail can be prepared in just a few simple steps and can be enjoyed straight or mixed into other drinks, offering versatility to cater to different tastes at your gathering.

Its vibrant orange hue and sweet taste are sure to make it a crowd-pleaser at any fall celebration.

El Diablo

El Diablo

Planning a memorable and fun-filled fall tailgate party requires more than just good company – you also need delicious drinks to match the festive atmosphere. If you’re looking for a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail that’s perfect for sipping on a crisp fall day, look no further than the El Diablo.

This tequila-based cocktail brings together the sweet and tangy flavors of blackcurrant-flavored cassis, lime juice, and ginger beer in a harmonious balance that will leave your guests wanting more. The rich depth of flavor provided by the creme de cassis perfectly complements the bold kick of the tequila and spicy undertones of the ginger beer, making it an excellent choice for those who love ginger beer cocktails.

This show-stopping cocktail is sure to be a hit at any tailgate gathering, so why not give the El Diablo a try and add some excitement to your fall festivities?

Elderflower Martini

Elderflower Martini

Elevating your Fall Tailgate parties just got easier with the Elderflower Martini, a refreshing and light cocktail that’s perfect for any occasion. This exquisite blend of gin, vodka, and elderflower liqueur creates a delicate balance of flavors that will leave you craving more. The homemade sweet and sour mix adds a tangy twist to the drink, while the lime wedge provides a burst of freshness and a touch of elegance.

This cocktail is surprisingly easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for entertaining friends and family. Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or simply want to serve something special, the Elderflower Martini is definitely worth trying.

Toasted Pecan Old Fashioned

Toasted Pecan Old Fashioned

A twist on the classic whiskey cocktail, the Toasted Pecan Old Fashioned is a seasonal delight that’s perfect for a chilly evening. The addition of toasted pecans infuses the drink with a rich and nutty flavor, making it an ideal choice for those who crave a stronger, more complex taste experience. When combined with sugar and bitters, the infused whiskey creates a harmonious balance of sweet and savory notes, elevating this cocktail to new heights.

Whether you’re hosting a Fall Tailgate gathering or simply looking to spice up your drink repertoire, the Toasted Pecan Old Fashioned is an absolute must-try for anyone seeking a truly unique drinking experience.

The Royal Apple Cocktail

The Royal Apple Cocktail

Just as the autumn leaves start to change colors, the flavors of fall begin to emerge in our cocktails. The Royal Apple Cocktail is a delightful blend of Crown Royal Apple, apple juice, and applesauce that captures the essence of the season. The subtle hint of apple flavor from the Canadian whiskey adds a smooth and refreshing taste, reminiscent of crisp apple juice.

This cocktail is perfect for enjoying during apple season, whether you’re cozying up around the bonfire or cheering on your favorite team with friends. Its crisp and revitalizing flavor makes it an ideal choice for any occasion that calls for a celebratory drink.

Hot Apple Cider

Hot Apple Cider

Lovely and inviting, Hot Apple Cider is a timeless fall beverage that perfectly complements tailgating parties. Its rich flavor profile is achieved by combining apple cider with a carefully crafted blend of seasonal spices, creating a warm and cozy drink that’s sure to delight both young and old. Whether you prefer to add a splash of bourbon or brandy to give it an extra kick, turning it into a cocktail, or enjoy it as is, Hot Apple Cider is a must-have for any fall gathering.

The aromatic properties alone will permeate your tailgate with the unmistakable scents of autumn, instantly putting your guests in a warm and fuzzy mood. So, grab a mug and indulge in the flavors of fall with this delectable and effortlessly prepared cocktail.

Strawberry Old Fashioned

Strawberry Old Fashioned

Kicking off Fall Tailgates with a twist on a classic, the Strawberry Old Fashioned brings together the warmth of bourbon with the sweetness of fresh strawberries. To prepare this refreshing cocktail, simply puree fresh strawberries and sugar in a blender until smooth, then strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the solids. The resulting strawberry syrup is combined with bourbon, bitters, water, and ice for a unique and flavorful drink that’s sure to delight your guests.

With its vibrant color and garnish of orange peel and fresh strawberry on top, this cocktail is almost too pretty to drink – but don’t be afraid to give it a try! It’s the perfect choice for those looking to impress their friends with a one-of-a-kind tailgate cocktail.

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