Easy & Refreshing Oaks Lily Mocktail for Derby Day Celebrations
The Oaks Lily Mocktail is the perfect non-alcoholic drink to serve at your next Kentucky Derby party or spring gathering. This vibrant and refreshing Oaks Lily Mocktail recipe is a delicious, alcohol-free twist on the classic cocktail traditionally served at the Kentucky Oaks the day before the famous Derby.
Made with cranberry juice, lemonade, and orange juice, this easy mocktail recipe is packed with fruity flavors and finished with a splash of soda for a touch of bubbly. Whether you’re planning a Derby Day celebration, baby shower, brunch, or just need a pretty pink drink to impress your guests, this Kentucky Derby Mocktail is sure to delight!
It’s quick, family-friendly, and can be made in under 5 minutes—no bartender required. Also, it’s naturally gluten-free, vegan, and pregnancy-safe, making it the perfect option for those looking for healthy mocktail recipes or non-alcoholic derby drinks.
🛒 Ingredients You’ll Need to Make the Perfect Oaks Lily Mocktail
To recreate the refreshing and vibrant Oaks Lily Mocktail, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. This non-alcoholic Kentucky Derby mocktail is light, fruity, and perfect for spring and summer gatherings. Here’s everything you need to mix up this easy drink at home—no alcohol required!
🧃 1. Cranberry Juice (2 oz)
Cranberry juice gives the Oaks Lily Mocktail its signature rosy hue and tart base flavor.
Tip: Use 100% cranberry juice (unsweetened) for a tangier taste, or cranberry juice cocktail for a sweeter version.
🍋 2. Lemonade (2 oz)
Fresh and citrusy lemonade balances out the tartness of the cranberry and adds a bright, zesty finish.
You can use homemade lemonade or your favorite store-bought brand.
🍊 3. Orange Juice (1 oz)
A splash of orange juice adds natural sweetness and depth.
Freshly squeezed is best, but bottled OJ works too for this Derby-inspired mocktail recipe.
🥤 4. Club Soda or Lemon-Lime Soda (Splash)
Add a bubbly finish to your mocktail recipe with a splash of club soda or lemon-lime soda.
This adds fizz and fun—perfect for Kentucky Derby celebrations and spring parties!
🧊 5. Ice Cubes
Plenty of ice is key to keeping your Oaks Lily Mocktail chilled and refreshing, especially for outdoor events.
🍋🍒 6. Garnishes (Optional but Recommended)
- Lemon wedge (for zing and citrus aroma)
- Fresh blackberry or cherry (classic Derby garnish)
- Mint sprig (for herbal freshness)
🔁 Ingredient Substitutions & Variations
- No cranberry juice? Try pomegranate juice or a cranberry-pomegranate blend.
- Want it sweeter? Use sweetened lemonade or add a splash of simple syrup.
- Prefer no fizz? Skip the soda and serve it still.
- Make it fancy: Serve in a hurricane glass or Derby-themed tumbler with crushed ice.
💡 Why These Ingredients Work So Well Together
This non-alcoholic version of the Oaks Lily cocktail is all about balance—tart cranberry, sweet orange, tangy lemonade, and fizzy soda blend into a refreshing drink that’s kid-friendly, pregnancy-safe, and perfect for Derby Day parties, baby showers, and warm weather brunches.
Oaks Lily Mocktail Recipe (Non-Alcoholic)
This Oaks Lily Mocktail is a non-alcoholic twist on the famous Kentucky Derby drink served at the Kentucky Oaks. It's tart, sweet, citrusy, and oh-so-refreshing—perfect for baby showers, brunches, summer parties, and Derby Day celebrations! Made in under 5 minutes and full of fruity flavor, this mocktail is a kid-friendly crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 2 oz cranberry juice (100% juice, no sugar added)
- 2 oz lemonade (fresh or store-bought)
- 1 oz orange juice (preferably fresh-squeezed)
- Splash of club soda or lemon-lime soda (for fizz)
- Ice cubes
- Garnish: lemon wedge and fresh blackberry or cherry
- Optional: mint sprig for extra freshness
Instructions
Notes
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
1Serving Size:
1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 257Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 47mgCarbohydrates: 66gFiber: 3gSugar: 58gProtein: 2g
🍹 Serving Suggestions
Want to make your Oaks Lily Mocktail shine? Here’s how to serve this refreshing non-alcoholic Derby drink so it’s party-perfect every time.
🥂 1. Use Elegant Glassware
To elevate your mocktail experience, pour it into a chilled highball, hurricane, or stemless wine glass. The cranberry-pink color looks stunning and adds elegance to any occasion.
✨ Pro Tip: Freeze your glassware for 10 minutes beforehand for a frosty, sophisticated touch!
🍋 2. Add Fresh, Festive Garnishes
Bring your mocktail to life with gorgeous garnishes that enhance both flavor and flair:
- 🍋 Lemon slice or citrus twist
- 🍒 Fresh blackberries or maraschino cherries
- 🌿 Mint sprigs for a cool aroma
- 🌸 Edible flowers for a pop of color
🎉 3. Serve at Celebrations
This kid-friendly Derby mocktail is a festive favorite for:
- Kentucky Oaks & Derby Day gatherings
- Baby showers and bridal brunches
- Spring garden parties or BBQs
- Mocktail bars at family-friendly events
🎈 Hosting Tip: Set up a mocktail bar with pitchers, ice buckets, and DIY garnish trays for guest-friendly serving!
🧊 4. Make a Pitcher for a Crowd
Want to serve this refreshing drink to many? Just batch it! Combine all ingredients in a large pitcher and chill. Add ice only when ready to serve to prevent dilution.
Let guests pour their own over ice and top with their favorite garnish. It’s the perfect easy mocktail party drink for large groups.
🍹 Variations & Customizations
Explore creative twists on the classic Oaks Lily Mocktail, including an authentic alcoholic version for Derby Day!
🍸 Classic Oaks Lily Cocktail (Alcoholic)
Add 1.5 oz vodka, 1 oz sweet & sour mix, cranberry juice, and a splash of triple sec. Shake and pour over ice. Garnish with a lemon wedge and cherry for the official Kentucky Oaks cocktail.
🧊 Frozen Oaks Lily Slushie
Blend with ice for a frosty treat. Add frozen berries or lemon sorbet to boost flavor and chill.
💧 Sparkling Oaks Lily
Top your mocktail with club soda, sparkling water, or lemon-lime soda for a fizzy finish.
🌿 Herbal Garden Twist
Muddle mint, basil, or rosemary for a botanical vibe. Garnish with edible flowers for elegance.
🫐 Berry Bliss Version
Muddle fresh berries or use cranberry-raspberry juice to infuse more fruity flavor and antioxidants.
🧃 Sugar-Free / Keto-Friendly
Use unsweetened cranberry juice, keto lemonade, and natural sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit.
🍹 Oaks Lily Party Punch
Mix large batches in a punch bowl with lemon slices, frozen berries, and sparkling water—perfect for a crowd.
🌱 Citrus Detox Mocktail
Add ginger, lime zest, or apple cider vinegar for a wellness-forward twist that’s refreshing and detoxifying.
Pro Tip: Whether you’re serving the classic Oaks Lily cocktail or a fresh, fizzy mocktail, always use fresh juice and vibrant garnishes to make it unforgettable!
Frequently Asked Questions about the Oaks Lily Mocktail
What is an Oaks Lily Mocktail?
An Oaks Lily Mocktail is a non-alcoholic drink inspired by the official cocktail of the Kentucky Oaks. Made with cranberry juice, lemonade, orange juice, and a splash of soda, it’s a fruity, festive, and kid-friendly option for Derby Day or any celebration.
What is the difference between the Oaks Lily cocktail and mocktail?
The traditional Oaks Lily cocktail contains vodka and orange liqueur, while the mocktail skips the alcohol and focuses on juice-based flavors. The mocktail version is suitable for kids, parties, and alcohol-free lifestyles.
Can I make the alcoholic version of the Oaks Lily Mocktail?
Yes! For the classic cocktail, add 1.5 oz citrus vodka and 0.5 oz orange liqueur to the mix. Shake with cranberry juice, lemonade, and orange juice, then garnish with a lemon wedge and blackberry for a traditional Kentucky Oaks experience.
Is the Oaks Lily Mocktail kid-friendly?
Absolutely! It’s alcohol-free and made with natural juices, making it a safe and tasty drink for kids, teens, and guests avoiding alcohol.
Can I make a large batch of Oaks Lily Mocktail for parties?
Yes! Multiply the ingredients and mix in a large pitcher. Chill it before serving, and add soda just before pouring into glasses to retain the fizz. Perfect for Derby-themed parties, baby showers, and summer get-togethers.
What kind of cranberry juice should I use?
Use 100% cranberry juice for a tart and vibrant taste, or cranberry juice cocktail for a sweeter mocktail. Organic options are great for a healthier version.
Can I make a sugar-free or low-carb version of this mocktail?
Yes. Use unsweetened cranberry juice, sugar-free lemonade (or lemon juice + stevia), and diet soda or sparkling water to create a low-carb or diabetic-friendly version of the Oaks Lily Mocktail.
Can I use bottled juice instead of fresh juice?
Yes, bottled juice works fine for convenience, especially for large batches. However, fresh-squeezed juice offers a brighter and more natural flavor.
What can I substitute for lemon-lime soda?
Try club soda, sparkling water, tonic water, or even ginger ale as a fizzy alternative. Each will add a slightly different twist to your Oaks Lily Mocktail.
Is the Oaks Lily Mocktail served at the Kentucky Derby or Kentucky Oaks?
The Oaks Lily is the official drink of the Kentucky Oaks, held the day before the Kentucky Derby. The Mint Julep is the official Derby drink, while the Oaks Lily (and mocktail version) is the go-to beverage for Friday’s celebrations.
If you like this article about Oaks Lily Mocktail Recipe, please share it with your friends on Facebook and Pinterest. Also, subscribe to my blog to get all the latest content first on your mobile.
