
This eye catching red, white, and blue kids’ drink pumps up any summer party or flag themed bash The trio of colors is always a show stopper and you’ll only need drinks from your local store I first whipped it up when my niece wanted something as fun as fireworks for July Fourth It was such a crowd pleaser that every child rushed over for a glass
When I made this the first time my niece and nephew had their cousins crowd around Everyone was taking wild guesses about the layers It’s pretty cool to see them show up clearly as you build each one
Vibrant Ingredients
- Maraschino cherry: Bright red classic to top everything off Grab the most colorful for the best look
- Blueberry Kool Aid or blue sports drink: Kicks the top layer up with a bold blue Choose a low sugar drink so the layers don’t run together
- Piña colada mix: Makes a rich white stripe right in the middle Go with a cold blend with coconut and pineapple for a real pop
- Grenadine syrup: Gives an awesome punch of red For great flavor, try a bottle made with real pomegranate
- Cherry 7 Up: Fizzy and sweet red base Find bottles that are already chilled to keep your colors sharp
- Ice cubes: Totally crucial for separating each color Load up as much as you can for best results
Step by Step Instructions
- Add Toppings:
- Drop a maraschino cherry onto the layered ice and toss in a striped straw Bring right out to serve
- Top it Off with Blue:
- Take that blue drink and pour it gently across the spoon for a crisp blue finish This keeps the colors from mixing
- Layer the White Stripe:
- Grab a spoon, turn it upside down, and slowly let the cold piña colada mix flow onto the second layer Another third of your glass is filled with creamy white
- Pour Your Red Mixture First:
- Start with Cherry 7 Up and a bit of grenadine Then carefully pour to fill the first portion of your glass That red forms your base
- Pack It with Ice:
- Completely fill up your cup with ice cubes This does the trick for super distinct stripes

I love decorating with a cherry on top even grownups want that extra treat My family laughs that I managed to spark a Fourth of July tradition by accident
Storage Tips
This is tastiest fresh out of the fridge but you can chill your glasses and have mixers ready to go Before a party set up drinks and ice for build-your-own If you prep ahead, save straws and cherries for the very last minute
Ingredient Swaps
Missed Cherry 7 Up Use a lemon lime soda plus some extra grenadine For blue, any blue juice works—even blue sports drink If piña colada mix is out, coconut milk mixed with pineapple juice gets close

How to Serve
Mason jars or tall clear glasses work great so you can see every color Pop in a fun straw and little flag If it’s a birthday put extra cherries in bowls for everyone to pile on
Background and Traditions
You’ll find this bright drink at summer bashes like July Fourth and Memorial Day parties all around the States The red white and blue colors are a nod to summer fun and get everyone in a happy mood together
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep the drink layers from blending together?
Always go slow, pouring gently with a spoon, and start with the thickest drink at the bottom. That way, your layers stay neat and crisp.
- → Can I swap in a different red or blue drink?
For sure! Use blue juice, red soda, or whatever you like—just make sure they’re about the same weight, so layers don’t get muddled.
- → Will adults enjoy this too?
Of course! Even though it's a hit at kids’ parties, everyone loves those sweet flavors and the fun look.
- → What's a fun garnish idea?
Try a maraschino cherry, or go wild with cool straws or playful fruit pieces for even more party fun.
- → Do I need to buy special gear to make sharp layers?
Nope! Just grab a regular spoon to help the layers stack tidy—no fancy gadgets required.
- → Can I fix these drinks ahead of time?
It's a lot better to build them right before you’re ready to serve, so the ice stays crisp and your colors stay separate.