Fourth of July cocktail ideas

(EndPlay Staff Reports) - Before the fireworks start going off, get your Fourth of July party started with these cocktails and drinks for guests of every age to enjoy.

Fourth of July Cocktail – What better cocktail to serve party goers than this holiday titled cocktail. The Food Network's Guy Fieri came up with this drink that combines watermelon schnapps, cranberry juice, tequila and blue curacao; adding a thin slice of jalapeno gives this drink an extra kick. The Fourth of July cocktail is visually appealing too, since the drink is layered red and blue. Get the detailed recipe here .

Sweet Independence – This sweet drink is simple: combine marshmallow infused vodka, blue curacao and a maraschino cherry. The recipe, featured on mixthatdrink.com , also has the visual appeal of the red, white and blue look by pouring the vodka in a chilled martini glass, dropping the cherry into the glass and then carefully layering the blue curacao on top.

Sparkler – For your guests that aren't into fireworks, serve them a Sparkler. Coastalcompanion.com offers this drink option, where the sparkle comes from sparkling wine or champagne. Add to that Three-O Pomegranate Vodka and pomegranate juice, and you have yourself an elegant drink to serve in a champagne flute.

Patriotic Drink – If your party will also include some younger guests, the Patriotic Drink is the perfect festive beverage that will have the little ones feeling just like the big ones. To get the red, white and blue effect, carefully layer cranberry juice, Wild Berry flavor Gatorade Fierce and Diet 7-Up over ice. Get some tips in getting the perfect layer on the Family Fun site where the recipe is listed.

Homemade Lemonade – What better beverage to serve kids at the party, and the kids at heart, then homemade lemonade. Good Housekeeping gives this classic recipe that only uses three ingredients: water, lemons and sugar.

Happy Birthday America!