Raise a Glass to Dad: Celebrate Father’s Day with the Perfect Pour
Father’s Day is the perfect occasion to show appreciation for all the dads, stepdads, grandfathers, uncles, and father figures who inspire us every day. And what better way to say “thank you” than with a thoughtfully crafted cocktail?
At National Bartending School, we know that the right drink can turn an ordinary moment into a lasting memory. Whether you’re a professional bartender serving guests on Father’s Day or simply mixing a drink at home for Dad, we’ve got a few ideas to help you make this year extra special.
3 Father’s Day Cocktails Dad Will Love
1. Classic Old Fashioned
For the dad who appreciates timeless style and great whiskey.
Recipe:
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1 sugar cube or ½ tsp sugar
- 2–3 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange peel
Muddle sugar and bitters, add whiskey and ice, stir well, garnish with an orange peel.
2. Negroni
Perfect for dads who love bold, bitter flavors and sophisticated sips.
Recipe:
- 1 oz gin
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
Stir with ice, strain over fresh ice, garnish with an orange slice or peel.
3. Smoky Paloma
A twist on the refreshing classic, ideal for outdoor Father’s Day BBQs.
Recipe:
- 2 oz mezcal (or tequila for a lighter version)
- 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice
- ½ oz lime juice
- ½ oz agave syrup
- Club soda
Shake mezcal, grapefruit, lime, and agave with ice; strain over ice and top with soda. Garnish with a grapefruit wedge.
Make It Personal
The best cocktails are the ones made with care. Take a moment this Father’s Day to ask Dad about his favorite spirits and flavors — whether that’s a smoky scotch, a crisp gin, or a sweet bourbon. Customizing the drink to his taste makes it that much more meaningful.
For Bartenders and Hosts
If you’re working behind the bar on Father’s Day or hosting an event:
- Offer a Father’s Day cocktail special to showcase creativity.
- Craft a signature drink that pairs with the occasion’s vibe — rich, bold, smooth.
- Remember the story: Share a quick fun fact about each cocktail you serve; people love to know what they’re drinking!
Learning to Craft Great Moments
At National Bartending School, we believe bartending is about more than just making drinks — it’s about creating experiences. From Father’s Day to weddings, corporate events, and beyond, knowing how to match a cocktail to the moment is a skill that sets great bartenders apart.
Want to learn the art of bartending? Ready to turn your passion into a flexible, fun career? Join us — your future behind the bar starts here.
Happy Father’s Day to all the amazing dads out there — cheers! 🥃🍸🍹
