Thank you so much for being here. There’s something truly special about summer gatherings—the laughter, the sunshine, and of course, the cold drinks that bring everyone together. If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate easy crowd-pleaser that looks as good as it tastes, you’re going to love this Lake Day Punch recipe.

Lake Day Punch (Party Jug Version) is a bold, fruity, and slightly boozy layered drink that was practically made for pool parties, lakeside afternoons, or any laid-back get-together with friends. Sweet blue raspberry Kool-Aid mixes with tangy pink lemonade, all boosted by a kick of vodka and topped with optional fizz for a refreshingly cool sipper that serves 10–12 thirsty guests.

What Is Lake Day Punch?

Lake Day Punch is a gallon-sized, layered punch designed with summer fun in mind. It’s made using two classic Kool-Aid flavors—blue raspberry and pink lemonade—each mixed with sugar, water, and vodka. These two mixtures are layered over a full jug of ice to create a beautiful color gradient that mimics the look of a shimmering lake under a summer sunset. Optional soda adds effervescence and volume, and garnishes like lemon slices or sour candies add personality and flair.

Whether you’re prepping a big batch for a boat day, filling up your party cooler, or just want to impress your friends with something a little unexpected, Lake Day Punch delivers. It’s fruity, fun, and incredibly easy to throw together.

Why You’ll Love This Boozy Punch

There are so many reasons Lake Day Punch might just become your new go-to party drink:

It’s made in large batches, so you’re not stuck mixing drinks all day.
It looks impressive but requires zero bartending skills.
It’s affordable, using ingredients that are easy to find at any grocery store.
It’s flexible—use different Kool-Aid flavors, flavored vodka, or add bubbles.
It’s fun to customize with seasonal fruits, candies, and other visual surprises.

Best of all, the punch tastes fantastic. There’s something nostalgic about Kool-Aid, and when combined with vodka and topped with a little soda, the flavor becomes a sweet-tart refresher that’s perfect for sipping in the sun.

What Does Lake Day Punch Taste Like?

The punch balances sweet, fruity flavors with just enough tartness from the lemonade. The blue raspberry layer is rich and candy-like, while the pink lemonade is lighter and brighter. The vodka blends seamlessly into the drink, adding a subtle warmth without overwhelming the flavor. With the optional soda, it becomes sparkling and light—refreshing enough to sip all day.

It’s one of those drinks that you almost forget contains alcohol, which makes it fun, but also calls for a little responsibility. Encourage guests to pace themselves or alternate with water, especially on hot days.

Benefits of Making a Jug Punch for Summer Parties

There are several reasons gallon-sized cocktail recipes like Lake Day Punch are perfect for summer entertaining.

Less hassle: Instead of making individual cocktails for everyone, this punch lets guests serve themselves.
More consistent: Each person gets the same flavor profile and strength.
Visually stunning: Layered colors and garnishes make it look impressive without extra effort.
Great for transport: You can prepare it in a jug or cooler and take it to picnics, boat rides, or beach hangouts.
Cost-effective: Compared to pre-made cocktails or canned beverages, it’s a much more economical way to serve a crowd.

Ingredients for Lake Day Punch (1 Gallon / Serves 10–12)

1 packet of blue raspberry Kool-Aid
1 packet of pink lemonade Kool-Aid
1 cup of sugar (divided into two ½ cup portions)
4 cups of cold water (2 cups per Kool-Aid flavor)
1 bottle (750 ml) of vodka, regular or flavored
Ice (enough to fill a one-gallon jug to the top)
Optional: 2 cups lemon-lime soda or club soda for sparkle
Optional garnish: lemon or lime slices, sour gummy rings, frozen berries, rock candy

Tools Needed for Preparation

You don’t need any special bartending equipment for this recipe, just basic kitchen supplies:

Two large pitchers or mixing bowls
A gallon jug or clear drink dispenser
Stirring spoons
Measuring cups
A large spoon or ladle for layering (optional, but helps with clean layering)

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Lake Day Punch is highly adaptable. You can change it up based on what’s available or your own flavor preferences.

Swap the flavors: Try different Kool-Aid combinations like cherry and grape, tropical punch and lime, or orange and strawberry.
Switch the spirit: Vodka is neutral and blends well, but white rum or coconut rum adds a tropical note.
Add fizz: Use flavored sparkling water or even tonic for a more adult twist.
Make it sweeter: Add fruit juices like pineapple or cranberry for more complexity.
Get fancy with garnishes: Fresh herbs like mint, or novelty garnishes like rock candy sticks, take the presentation to the next level.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Kool-Aid Layers

In your first pitcher, combine one packet of blue raspberry Kool-Aid with ½ cup of sugar and 2 cups of cold water. Stir until completely dissolved.

In your second pitcher, do the same with the pink lemonade Kool-Aid, ½ cup of sugar, and 2 cups of cold water. Mix until fully dissolved.

Step 2: Add the Vodka

Split the 750 ml bottle of vodka between the two pitchers. You can adjust the ratio if you want one layer stronger than the other. Stir each mixture thoroughly to combine.

Step 3: Fill and Layer

Fill your gallon jug all the way to the top with ice. The ice is key here—it helps slow the blending of layers and keeps your punch ice-cold.

Start by pouring in the blue raspberry mixture. Because it’s denser, it will sink to the bottom.

Next, slowly pour the pink lemonade layer over the back of a spoon. This disperses the liquid gently and helps it float on top of the blue layer, creating a beautiful layered effect.

Step 4: Optional Sparkle

For extra fizz, pour in up to 2 cups of lemon-lime soda or club soda. Add this just before serving to preserve the bubbles.

Drop in lemon slices, sour candies, or frozen fruit as garnish. They’ll float and add visual interest as well as flavor.

What to Serve with Lake Day Punch

This punch pairs wonderfully with classic summer dishes and snacks. Some ideas include:

Grilled chicken skewers with pineapple
Pulled pork sliders with slaw
Fresh fruit trays or fruit kabobs
Tortilla chips with mango salsa or guacamole
Frozen grapes or popsicles for hot days

It also works beautifully alongside other fun summer cocktails like the Coco Melon Cocktail, which brings tropical melon flavors into play, or the colorful Grateful Dead Cocktail, a vibrant mix of fruit liqueurs and spirits for serious punch.

Tips for a Perfect Party Jug Punch

Use very cold ingredients to help the ice last longer and prevent watering down.
Layer the drinks slowly using the back of a spoon to avoid mixing.
Serve immediately after layering for the best visual impact.
Consider freezing some of the Kool-Aid mixture into ice cubes so that it doesn’t get diluted as it sits.
For travel, mix everything except the soda and ice, then finish on-site for maximum freshness.

Storage and Leftovers

Lake Day Punch is best enjoyed fresh, but if you happen to have leftovers:

Store in the refrigerator in a sealed jug or pitcher for up to two days.
Be aware the layers will blend over time, but the flavor will still be great.
Stir before serving again.
Do not freeze, as the texture and flavor will degrade when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this without alcohol?
Yes. Simply leave out the vodka and add extra soda or flavored sparkling water for a fun, kid-friendly version. It still looks just as beautiful and tastes fruity and refreshing.

What kind of vodka should I use?
Basic unflavored vodka works great and keeps the focus on the Kool-Aid flavors. If you want to experiment, try citrus or berry-flavored vodkas for added dimension.

How do I keep the layers from blending?
Ice is your best friend here. Fill the jug to the very top and pour the top layer gently over the back of a spoon. If you’re too quick, the layers may blend—but it’ll still taste amazing.

Can I scale this recipe?
Absolutely. Double it for a larger party bucket or cut it in half for a more intimate gathering. The ratios are easy to adjust.

Final Thoughts

Lake Day Punch is everything a summer cocktail should be—fun, flavorful, affordable, and designed for sharing. It takes only minutes to throw together but makes a huge impact, both visually and on the taste buds. Whether you’re headed to the lake, throwing a backyard bash, or just want something easy to sip in the sun, this punch delivers every time.

If you’re a fan of colorful and creative cocktails, don’t stop here. You’ll also love the vibrant and playful Bite Me Baby Shark Cocktail, which combines tropical flavors and eye-catching garnishes that’ll be a hit at any themed event or pool party.

I’d love to see how your Lake Day Punch turned out! Share your photos, leave a review, and tag your punchy creations on Pinterest so we can celebrate summer together.

Approximate Nutrition per 8 oz Serving

Calories: 180
Sugar: 18 grams
Carbohydrates: 20 grams
Alcohol: Approximately 1.5 oz vodka per serving

Lake Day Punch (Party Jug Version)

Author: Sam

Print Recipe

Description

Lake Day Punch is your ultimate summer party drink—bright, boozy, and totally fun. Made with Kool-Aid, vodka, and topped with fizzy soda, this colorful layered punch serves a crowd and looks stunning in a clear jug. It’s perfect for lakeside hangouts, BBQs, or any gathering where chill vibes and refreshing drinks are on the menu.

Ingredients

Scale

(Serves 10–12 | Makes 1 gallon)

1 packet blue raspberry Kool-Aid
1 packet pink lemonade Kool-Aid
1 cup sugar (½ cup per mix)
4 cups cold water (2 cups per mix)
1 bottle (750 ml) vodka (plain or flavored)
Ice (enough to fill a 1-gallon jug)
Optional: 2 cups lemon-lime soda or club soda
Optional garnishes: lemon slices, sour gummy rings, rock candy sticks

Instructions

Make the Kool-Aid Bases: In two separate pitchers or bowls, mix each Kool-Aid packet with ½ cup sugar and 2 cups cold water. Stir until fully dissolved.
Add the Vodka: Pour half of the vodka into each pitcher (about 375 ml each). Stir to combine.
Build the Layers: Fill a 1-gallon jug with ice all the way to the top. Pour the blue Kool-Aid mixture into the jug first (it’s heavier and will settle on the bottom).
Add the Second Layer: Slowly pour the pink lemonade mixture over the back of a spoon so it floats gently on top, creating a layered effect.
Add Sparkle (Optional): Top with lemon-lime soda or club soda for a bubbly finish.

Garnish and Serve: Add lemon slices, gummies, or candy sticks for a festive touch. Serve immediately!

Notes

Chill the Kool-Aid and vodka mixtures before assembling to help keep your layers crisp and separate.
Pour the top layer slowly and over the back of a spoon for the best ombré look.
Make it stronger or lighter by adjusting the vodka to taste.
Try other Kool-Aid flavors or flavored vodkas to customize your punch.

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 1–2 days or frozen into boozy popsicles or slush!