Planning for your Fourth of July event should be exhilarating rather than daunting. While appetizers and mains are definitely important, we propose that no BBQ bash is complete without a couple of cocktail options. We've compiled a list of our favorite Independence Day bevvies, from classic red wine sangria to the refreshingly inventive Spaghett and Dog Days of Summer Ale.

The star of the occasion is an innovative Michalada with fresh blackberries. Not your average cocktail, it's layered with smoky chipotle hot sauce, rounded off with a squeeze of fresh lime, styled expertly by Emily Nabors Hall and Audrey Davis. whereas the prolific party favorite, sangria, gets a twist with flavors of ripe cherry from Malbec and Grenache wines.

Americano lovers and spritz enthusiasts will surely peg the Americano as a crowd favorite. It's an equally stunning, herbaceous alternative with a Select aperitif in place of Campari. Crossing over into dessert territory is a delightful cocktail that combines the elements of a classic French 75 with tangy limoncello. Alter the tartness or sweetness with your preference of lemon juice or limoncello.

Suspecting a spare bottle of Campari in your home bar? Repurpose it into the satisfyingly simple Spaghett, a beer-based cocktail hit. Lucy Simon styles a non-alcoholic option, a classic Mexican hibiscus agua fresca – zing it up with a shot of tequila or mezcal if you choose. A vivid rosé wine sangria recipe makes a stunning centerpiece, needing nothing more than your holiday rosé and an easy berry ice ring.

Taking tails into a bolder territory, the Kind of Blue cocktail introduces Cappelletti, an herbal and bittersweet aperitif option. Its red color is holiday-appropriate and it intertwined beautifully with dry, salty notes from a fino sherry addition. A bit of patience for the blueberry syrup results in a seasonal, fruity layer.

An orange rival to the Aperol Spritz takes center stage next. The Aperol Fizz, a blend of the classic spritz and egg cream, adds depth with navy strength gin and dry vermouth. Explore the floral side of sangria with a sake-based version, kicked up with a spicy jalapeño syrup.

The aptly named Cherry Heering lends its stunning color and flavor to the next diversion. Adding playful touches of marzipan, strawberry jam and pine to a beer cocktail, it's sure to turn heads. A whiskey-based reinterpretation of the Moscow Mule is fitting for the hot July heat and is perfectly served in the signature copper cup.

For beer aficionados eagerly awaiting a spritz mixture, a sparkling wine-based cocktail will hit the spot. With its best pairing alongside an American-style lager like Miller High Life, the drink is elevated with the addition of Averna, a Sicilian amaro with a sweet side. The beloved Paloma goes up a notch with a Mexican lager twist as well, adorned with a smoky, sweet and sour toppings of Tajin and a red grapefruit wedge. Lastly, redefine your frozen cocktail routine with citrusy summer cocktail, the secret? Ice cubes made with ginger syrup.