World Cocktail Day Cocktails: 5 Favorites to Try

May 13 is World Cocktail Day, and there’s no better way to celebrate than by mixing up a few of your favorites. Whether you’re new to home bartending or looking to upgrade your signature drink, these five World Cocktail Day cocktails are crowd-pleasers, each with its own story and personal twist. From my husband’s famously requested Margarita to an Espresso Martini that doubles as dessert, let’s raise a glass to flavor, fun, and the joy of a perfectly crafted cocktail.
*As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Top World Cocktail Day Cocktails: 5 Favorites to Try

1. Moscow Mule – A Classic World Cocktail Day Favorite

This zesty, refreshing cocktail is a staple on any bar menu—and one of the easiest to make at home. Served in its signature copper mug, the Moscow Mule offers a bold ginger kick and crisp lime finish.

Origin Story: Despite its name, the Moscow Mule was born in the U.S. in the 1940s as a collaboration between a vodka distributor and a ginger beer brand. The copper mug? A clever marketing idea that just stuck.

Recipe

• 2 oz vodka
• ½ oz fresh lime juice
• 4 oz ginger beer (my favorite is Fever Tree)
• Ice and lime wedge for garnish

Try It This World Cocktail Day: If you’re new to making cocktails, this is a perfect one to start with.

2. Margarita – Chris’s Famous World Cocktail Day Pick

When I say my husband Chris makes the best Margarita—I’m not exaggerating. Our friends request it at every get-together, and it’s earned legendary status in our circle.

Recipe (Chris’ Classic)

• 2 oz blanco tequila
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 oz Triple Sec
• 1 oz simple syrup
• Habanero Sea Salt for the rim + lime wedge

Pro Tip: Put all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake until frosty and serve over fresh ice in a habanero salt-rimmed glass. It’s the ultimate balance of tart, citrusy, and smooth.

World Cocktail Day Cocktail tip: Use high-quality tequila and fresh lime juice—it makes all the difference.

3. French 75

Elegant, fizzy, and deceptively strong, the French 75 is my favorite “treat yourself” cocktail. It’s perfect for brunch, celebrations, or anytime you want bubbles with a twist.

Origin Story: Created during WWI, the French 75 was named after a field gun because of its powerful “kick.”

Recipe

• 1 oz gin
• ½ oz lemon juice
• ½ oz simple syrup
• Top with champagne or sparkling wine

For World Cocktail Day: This is a great choice if you’re feeling fancy but want something that’s still easy to make.

4. Mojito

The Mojito brings major vacation vibes to any backyard or balcony. With mint, lime, and a touch of fizz, it’s one of the most refreshing World Cocktail Day cocktails you can sip on.

Origin Story: This Cuban classic dates back to the 1500s and was a favorite of Ernest Hemingway.

Recipe

• 2 oz white rum
• 1 oz lime juice
• ½ oz simple syrup
• 6–8 mint leaves
• Soda water to top

Tip: Gently muddle the mint—don’t mash it! This keeps it aromatic without bitterness.

5. Espresso Martini

Who says you can’t have coffee and cocktails at the same time? The Espresso Martini is bold, smooth, and my go-to after-dinner drink.

Origin Story: Invented in the 1980s in London, it was created when a customer asked for something to “wake me up and then mess me up.”

Recipe

• 2 oz vodka
• 1 oz fresh espresso
• ½ oz coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa)
• ½ oz simple syrup (optional)

Make It for World Cocktail Day: Ideal for a nightcap or dessert alternative.

Tools to Stock the Perfect Bar

Want to recreate these World Cocktail Day cocktails at home? These tools will help you do it with style and ease. I’ve included my go-to picks below (affiliate links included!).

Espresso Tools – For nailing that Espresso Martini
👉 [Shop Espresso Makers]

Cocktail Shaker Set – Essential for Margaritas, Espresso Martinis, and French 75s
👉 [Shop 6-piece Shaker Set]

Citrus Juicer – Fresh juice is key for most cocktails
👉 [Shop Citrus Juicer]

Jigger – For accurate measurements
👉 [Shop Jiggers]

Glassware Sets – The right glass makes all the difference
👉 [Shop Martini Glasses]
👉 [Shop Margarita Glasses]
👉 [Shop Champagne Flutes]
👉 [Shop Copper Mugs]

Final Sip

Whether you’re celebrating with friends, mixing something new, or sticking with a tried-and-true favorite, these World Cocktail Day cocktails are perfect for the occasion. Try one—or all five—and don’t forget to tag me if you share your creations.

Love tropical drinks? Be sure to check out my post on the Piña Colada—Puerto Rico’s iconic cocktail and its rich history for another sunny-sipping favorite.

Cheers to great drinks and even better memories!