10 Fun St. Patrick's Day Cocktails

St. Patrick's Day is one of the biggest parties of the year. The celebration is a tradition for many of us, whether we have a drop of Irish blood or not. If you're joining in the fun, you will definitely need a few great drinks for the occasion.

From green beer to cocktails featuring Irish whiskey and other lucky spirits, there's a fun and tasty recipe to fit every taste. Mix one of these up and start spreading the Irish cheer—Erin go Bragh!

  • 01 of 10

    Green Beer

    Green beer

    The Spruce 

    What is the one drink almost everyone wants to know how to make on St. Patrick's Day? Green beer, of course. It does have a certain allure.

    If you've only enjoyed a green beer at the local pub, you'll be happy to know that it's beyond simple to make at home. Save some cash and discover the secret to transforming any light-colored beer into an emerald-colored brew.

  • 02 of 10

    Green Dublin Apple Cocktail

    Green Apple Martini

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    Green is the color of the day and there are many fascinating green cocktails that are perfect for St. Patrick's Day. Among our favorite recipes is the Green Dublin Apple cocktail.

    This is no ordinary green apple martini. No, this one is filled to the brim with Irish spirit thanks to the Irish whiskey which replaces the typical shot of vodka. The cocktail also uses white cranberry juice to sweeten the mix and allow the green apple liqueur to give the drink its signature color.

  • 03 of 10

    The Massey Cocktail

    Jacob Grier's Massey Cocktail

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    If you're looking for a high-class option that celebrates Irish whiskey in all its glory, the Massey cocktail is a great choice. It's an ideal match for an Irish-themed dinner party filled with traditional foods.

    This cocktail has a classic style and you'll enjoy its array of flavors. The base is a combination of Irish whiskey and London dry gin mixed with sweet vermouth. To that, you'll add an herbal liqueur and Italian bitter. It's a truly fascinating combination.

  • 04 of 10

    Guinness and Green Jell-O Shot

    Guinness and Green Jell-O Shots

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    What would a St. Patrick's Day party be without a round of shots? A little less fun, possibly. While there are a number of fun shooter recipes that fit the Irish theme, we suggest you try this original take on the popular jello shot.

    The Guinness and Green is unique and delicious. The first layer is a gelatin mix of stout and Irish whiskey and the top is a green-colored gelatin with Irish cream. It's almost as fun to make as it is to drink!

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  • 05 of 10

    Irish Cactus

    Irish Cactus Cocktail

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    It's time to enjoy a hybrid drink that gives you just a touch of Irish spirit but goes about it in a totally unique way. It is unusual, but before you judge it, you have to try it for yourself.

    The Irish Cactus is a slow-sipping, creamy lowball drink that's served on the rocks. It is made mostly of Irish cream, so here's your excuse to pour whichever brand you prefer. The secret ingredient to the Cactus? Tequila, of course!

  • 06 of 10

    Whiskey Tonic

    Whiskey Tonic With Lemon Wedge
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    Are you a fan of tonic water but want to give your gin a break for St. Patrick's Day? You're in luck because this recipe is the best of both worlds.

    The whiskey tonic (or leprechaun, if you prefer) is as simple as any other tonic drink. All you need is your favorite Irish whiskey and a bottle of tonic. The whiskey background against the dry soda is invigorating and the recipe is so easy that it's hard to pass up.

  • 07 of 10

    Black and Red

    Bushmills Irish Whiskey's Black and Red Cocktail

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    With one simple substitution, you can ​give your Manhattan an Irish twist. The Black and Red is a very fine drink that any whiskey lover will enjoy and it's as simple as choosing a top-shelf Irish whiskey.

  • 08 of 10

    Pot of Gold

    Pot of Gold Vodka and Elderflower Martini

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    Sweet with a spicy side, the Pot of Gold is a darling drink that will appeal to vodka martini fans. Though it doesn't have a drop of Irish spirits, it includes green ingredients a-plenty so it's still a good fit for the party.

    The recipe is low-calorie and filled with fresh flavors. Pick up a crisp, clean vodka and an elderflower liqueur or syrup. You'll also need fresh cucumber and mint. The spicy kick comes from a short pour of ginger beer, which finishes the mix off perfectly.

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  • 09 of 10

    Shamrock Shaker

    Shamrock Shaker

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    Smooth and creamy, the Shamrock Shaker is an absolute delight. It's simple and satisfying and light on the liquor, ideal for anyone who's looking for a delicious drink without the​ hangover risk.

    This recipe requires just three ingredients—coffee liqueur is the main spirit and its coffee flavor is accented with the sweetness of an amaretto. Then just add a long pour of milk and give it a hearty shake. In the end, you'll have a lightly boozy milkshake that's fancy enough for any party. 

  • 10 of 10

    Irish Encounter

    The Irish Encounter Frozen Cocktail With Pyrat Rum

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    Step away from everything you associate with St. Patrick's Day cocktails and consider mixing up an Irish Encounter. It's fun, delicious, and an excuse to break out the blender.

    The "encounter" in the recipe refers to the short shot of Irish cream. Beyond that, we're looking at a frozen Piña Colada, complete with rum and plenty of coconut milk. We even toss in a fresh banana.