Tehaleh, Washington, is known for its stunning views of Mount Rainier and community spirit. But this March, it’s time to swap the hiking boots for cocktail shakers and celebrate National Cocktail/Mocktail Day in style. Whether you’re a mixology maestro or just someone who appreciates a good drink (alcoholic or not), this day is your perfect excuse to sip, mingle, and enjoy the art of the pour.

A Toast to History: The Rise of Cocktails and Mocktails

Cocktails have been around since the 19th century, originally crafted to mask the taste of less-than-stellar spirits. Fast forward to today, and they’ve become an art form—equal parts flavor, flair, and Instagram-worthy aesthetics. Classics like the Martini and Old Fashioned still hold their ground, but modern mixologists are pushing boundaries with color-changing drinks and edible garnishes.

Mocktails, on the other hand, have their roots in Prohibition-era America when bartenders had to get creative to keep customers coming back. Today, these alcohol-free concoctions are celebrated as sophisticated options for teetotalers, health-conscious individuals, or anyone who just wants a refreshing drink without the buzz.

Sip Happens: Why Tehaleh is the Perfect Place to Celebrate

Tehaleh’s Discovery Park Community Center is no stranger to hosting events that bring neighbors together. From Oktoberfest to stargazing parties, this community knows how to throw a good bash. National Cocktail/Mocktail Day is another opportunity to gather residents for an evening of fun, flavor, and maybe even a little friendly competition over who can craft the most creative drink.

With its 40+ miles of trails and 14 parks, Tehaleh offers plenty of spots for a post-drink stroll or picnic. And let’s be honest—cocktails taste even better when paired with a view of Mount Rainier.

Mix It Up: Easy Recipes for Every Taste

Ready to channel your inner mixologist? Here are some simple cocktail and mocktail recipes that are sure to impress:

Cocktails

Mojito

  • Ingredients: Fresh mint leaves, white rum, sugar, lime juice, soda water
  • Directions: Muddle mint leaves with sugar and lime juice. Add rum and soda water over ice. Stir gently and garnish with more mint.

 

Piña Colada

  • Ingredients: Coconut cream, white rum, pineapple juice
  • Directions: Blend all ingredients with ice until smooth. Serve in a chilled glass with a pineapple wedge.

 

Tequila Sunrise

  • Ingredients: Tequila, orange juice, grenadine
  • Directions: Pour tequila and orange juice into a glass over ice. Slowly add grenadine for that signature sunrise effect.

 

Mocktails

Tangerine Rosemary Spritz

  • Ingredients: Tangerine juice, rosemary syrup, soda water
  • Directions: Mix tangerine juice with rosemary syrup in a glass filled with ice. Top with soda water and garnish with a sprig of rosemary.

 

Hibiscus Basil Cooler

  • Ingredients: Hibiscus tea, basil leaves, honey syrup
  • Directions: Brew hibiscus tea and let it cool. Muddle basil leaves with honey syrup in a shaker. Add tea and shake well before straining into a glass over ice.

 

Watermelon Mint Tonic

  • Ingredients: Watermelon juice, fresh mint leaves, tonic water
  • Directions: Muddle mint leaves in a glass. Add watermelon juice and top with tonic water. Stir gently and garnish with mint.

 

Drink Responsibly (Seriously)

While cocktails are fun (and mocktails are guilt-free), safety should always come first. If you’re hosting an event at home or attending one at the Community Center:

  • Provide plenty of non-alcoholic options alongside cocktails.
  • Arrange safe transportation for guests—designate drivers or use ride-sharing apps.
  • Keep an eye on your friends’ alcohol consumption and know the signs of overindulgence.
  • Never leave drinks unattended—your safety matters as much as your enjoyment.

Tehaleh’s community-first approach makes it easy to celebrate responsibly while having a blast.

Shakers at the Ready!

Whether you’re sipping on a classic Negroni or savoring a refreshing cranberry mocktail, National Cocktail/Mocktail Day is all about celebrating creativity in a glass. So gather your neighbors at Discovery Park Community Center or host your own backyard soirée—just don’t forget the tiny umbrellas!

 

 

Sources: 101cookbooks.com, bbcgoodfood.com, youthsafe.org
Header Image Source: wu yi on Unsplash