Red Drink and the Spirit of Juneteenth

Juneteenth is an annual celebration of freedom, resilience, and unity. While many Emancipation Days were already being celebrated across the south, Juneteenth was first observed on June 19, 1866, an entire year after the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in Texas. It was only then that all slaves had been made aware of their freedom. Over time, Juneteenth has evolved into a national holiday honoring the end of slavery in the United States. Juneteenth is now a day for reflection, joy, and shared traditions, including one consistent symbol on tables and in glasses everywhere: red drink.

The Historical Significance of Red Drink

Red drink is more than a refreshment; it’s a cultural symbol deeply woven into Juneteenth traditions. Its lineage traces back to West Africa, where crimson-hued beverages were made from hibiscus flowers and kola nuts1. These ingredients crossed the Atlantic during the transatlantic slave trade, carried by enslaved Africans, and found a place in the evolving culinary traditions of the African diaspora.

The vibrant red color of these drinks is steeped in meaning. It represents the bloodshed and sacrifices of enslaved Africans while also serving as a symbol of resilience, unity, and the joy found in shared community2. Red drink has taken many forms over the years, from hibiscus tea to strawberry lemonade and modern red sodas like Big Red3.

Red Drink and Juneteenth Celebration

Juneteenth marks a pivotal moment of emancipation, but it is equally a celebration of African American culture. Food and drink are central to this celebration, and red drink embodies this spirit. Whether served in a Solo cup at a barbecue or poured into a delicate flute on an elegant dinner table, red drink connects generations and reinforces the enduring traditions of African American heritage.

Today, red drinks are not only a nod to history but also an invitation to experiment! From hibiscus-based punches (some of you have tasted our delicious hibiscus cocktails!!) to nostalgic Kool-Aid recipes, these beverages can be adapted in modern ways while still honoring their cultural roots3.

3 Bold Red Drink Cocktails for Your Juneteenth Menu and Beyond

(Useful tip: Each of these cocktails can be made without the liquor for children and other non-drinkers - no need to adjust!)

Sweet Emancipation

This cocktail is a refreshing nod to tradition, blending the warm, spiced notes of Siwani Clü with the vibrant sweetness of strawberry puree and the tart brightness of fresh lemon juice. Topped with a lively fizz of soda water, it’s a bubbly, uplifting tribute to the rich heritage and resilience celebrated on Juneteenth. With its balance of bold flavors and refreshing simplicity, this drink is a small yet meaningful way to honor the past and how far we've yet to go, while savoring the joy in how far we've come.

Recipe

• 1.5 oz Clü

• 1 oz strawberry puree

• 1/2 oz lemon juice

• 1/2 oz simple syrup

• 2 oz soda water

• Ice

• Fresh strawberry and lemon wheel for garnish

Instructions

1. Shake Clü, strawberry puree, lemon juice, and syrup with ice in a shaker.

2. Strain into a rocks glass over ice.

3. Top with soda water.

4. Garnish with a strawberry and lemon wheel.

Crimson Revival

The Crimson Revival draws inspiration from the deep traditions of red drink, a symbol of resilience and celebration in African American culture. Combining the warm spice of Siwani Clü with the familiar sweetness of red Kool-Aid and a bright lemon-lime sparkle, it’s a drink that honors the legacy of Juneteenth. Its bold red hue and refreshing flavors make it a perfect sip for reflection, reconstruction, and revival.

Ingredients

• 1.5 oz Clü

• 2 oz red Kool-Aid (prepared to taste)

• 2 oz lemon-lime soda

• 1/2 oz fresh lime juice

• 1 oz unsweetened cranberry juice (optional, for added tartness and red color)

• 1/2 oz simple syrup (optional)

• Ice

• Lime wheel and a fresh strawberry or cherry for garnish

Instructions

1. Fill a shaker with ice. Add Clü, red Kool-Aid, fresh lime juice (plus the cranberry juice and simple syrup, if using).

2. Shake gently for about 10 seconds to combine and chill the mixture.

3. Strain into a highball glass filled with fresh ice.

4. Top with soda and stir gently to incorporate.

5. Garnish with a lime wheel and either a fresh strawberry or cherry to add a pop of color and festivity.

Red Horizon

Siwani Silva’s smooth herbal profile takes center stage in this vibrant celebration of heritage, honoring African American traditions with a rich and refreshing twist. Infused with the tangy sweetness of raspberries and the warm, floral depth of honey, this cocktail delivers a harmonious blend of bold flavors. A zesty citrus finish ties it all together, making every sip a tribute to resilience, culture, and community. Perfect for raising a glass to autonomy and legacy.

Recipe

• 1.5 oz Silva

• 4-5 raspberries

• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice

• 1/2 oz honey syrup

• 2 oz club soda

• Ice

• Lemon wheel and edible flower for garnish

Instructions

1. Muddle raspberries in a tall glass and add ice

2. Separately, shake Silva, lemon juice, and honey syrup with ice.

3. Strain into glass over the muddled raspberries and ice.

4. Top with club soda.

5. Garnish with a lemon wheel and edible flower.

Red drink is more than a beverage; it’s a symbol of the struggles and triumphs of African Americans throughout history. By incorporating modern, elevated twists with Siwani’s Silva and Clü spirits, these recipes celebrate Juneteenth’s enduring cultural significance while honoring its rich traditions.

This Juneteenth, raise a glass to freedom, resilience, and community. Together, we celebrate the past, cherish the present, and look forward to the future. Cheers!

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