Looking for a refreshing party drink that makes a splash? Trash can cocktails have become wildly popular at gatherings across the country. They combine potent alcohols with fruit juices and other mixers to create beverages that taste deceptively sweet while packing a serious punch.
These fun, communal drinks are served directly from a clean trash can. This creates a memorable presentation that guests love photographing for social media.
These eye-catching concoctions typically blend vodka, rum, gin, and various fruit juices to create drinks that taste like tropical punch while hiding their alcoholic strength. The versatility of trash can recipes allows hosts to customize ingredients based on preference. Options range from the classic “Jungle Juice” to the “Irish Trash Can” and refreshing “Lemonade Punch” variations.
Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue, beach party, or casual get-together, these crowd-pleasing shared cocktails offer a convenient serving method. This minimizes bartending duties while maximizing the fun factor for your guests.
1. Irish Trash Can
The Irish Trash Can is a powerful cocktail that combines six different spirits. It contains gin, vodka, light rum, peach schnapps, blue curaçao, and triple sec.
This vibrant blue drink is typically topped with Red Bull energy drink, which gives it an extra kick. The blue curaçao provides its distinctive color.
To make this drink, pour the blue curaçao into a tall glass filled with ice. Add the remaining spirits, then top with Red Bull.
This drink isn’t for beginners due to its high alcohol content. You might notice it’s served with several straws, which is part of its unique presentation.
2. Tropical Trash Can
The Tropical Trash Can is a fruity variation of the classic trash can cocktail. Based on the search results, this drink combines vodka, gin, and rum as its base spirits.
To make this tropical version, you’ll need 1 ounce each of vodka, gin, and rum. The tropical flavor comes from fruit juices like pineapple juice mixed with other ingredients.
Fill your glass with ice before adding the spirits. You can garnish with tropical fruits like pineapple chunks or orange slices for extra flair.
This colorful cocktail is perfect for summer parties or beach-themed gatherings. The combination of multiple spirits makes it quite potent, so sip responsibly!
3. Blue Hawaiian Trash Can
The Blue Hawaiian Trash Can is a vibrant blue cocktail that packs a punch. This drink combines multiple liquors with a tropical twist.
Start by pouring Blue Curaçao in the base of a tall glass filled with ice. This gives the drink its signature blue color.
Add vodka, gin, rum, triple sec, and peach schnapps over the ice. These spirits create the “trash can” effect with multiple alcohols mixed together.
Top it off with an energy drink for a caffeinated kick. You can also add a splash of pineapple juice for extra tropical flavor.
Garnish with a pineapple wedge or cherry to complete this eye-catching blue cocktail that’s perfect for parties.
4. Jungle Juice Trash Can
Jungle Juice Trash Can is a party favorite that combines various alcohols and fruit juices in a large container. You’ll need a clean trash can or large container to mix this drink.
The basic recipe includes vodka, tequila, fruit punch, and mixed fruits like limes, oranges, and strawberries. Some versions use Sunkist orange soda for a citrusy flavor.
To make it, fill your container halfway with fruit punch or Sunkist. Add your choice of liquors (vodka and tequila work well). Then mix in some boxed wine for extra flavor.
Finally, add fresh cut fruits and let them soak. Serve chilled for a refreshing party drink that serves many guests.
5. Energy Cooler Trash Can
The Energy Cooler Trash Can is a high-octane cocktail that combines multiple spirits with an energy drink. It’s perfect for those looking for a drink with both flavor and a boost.
To make this drink, you’ll need blue curaçao, vodka, gin, rum, triple sec, and peach schnapps. Start by pouring blue curaçao into a tall glass filled with ice.
Add equal parts of vodka, gin, rum, triple sec, and peach schnapps – typically half-ounce pours of each. Top it off with an energy drink like Red Bull.
The result is a bright blue cocktail that packs a punch. Be cautious when drinking this powerful mix, as it contains multiple alcohols.
6. Rainbow Trash Can
The Rainbow Trash Can is a vibrant, eye-catching cocktail that lives up to its colorful name. This drink features multiple layers of different colored spirits to create a rainbow effect in the glass.
To make this drink, you’ll need vodka, gin, rum, blue curaçao, grenadine, orange juice, and a can of Red Bull. Layer each ingredient carefully over ice to maintain the distinct color separation.
Start with grenadine at the bottom, followed by orange juice, clear spirits, blue curaçao, and finally top with Red Bull. The finished drink should display a stunning gradient from red at the bottom to blue, with the Red Bull creating a golden top layer.
This photogenic cocktail is perfect for parties and social media posts. It’s strong but surprisingly smooth with a fruity, energizing flavor profile.
7. Mardi Gras Trash Can
The Mardi Gras Trash Can is a festive drink that brings the spirit of New Orleans to your glass. This colorful cocktail gets its striking appearance from blue curaçao.
To make this celebration drink, start with a tall glass filled with ice. Pour in 1/2 oz each of vodka, rum, gin, and peach schnapps. Add 2 oz of blue curaçao for that signature color.
Add 5 drops of lime juice and 1/2 cup of lemonade. Top with an energy drink like Red Bull to give it that special kick. The combination creates a sweet, potent drink perfect for Mardi Gras parties.
Garnish with purple, green, and gold decorations to complete the festive theme.
8. Fruity Trash Can
The Fruity Trash Can is a sweet and refreshing twist on the classic Trash Can cocktail. This version focuses on fruit flavors rather than intense alcohol.
To make this drink, you’ll need vodka, gin, light rum, peach schnapps, triple sec, and blue curaçao. Pour about half an ounce of each into a tall glass filled with ice.
Top it with a fruit-flavored energy drink instead of the traditional Red Bull. Pineapple, mango, or tropical flavor works well here.
Garnish with fresh fruit slices like orange, pineapple, or cherries. The blue curaçao gives this drink its signature blue color at the bottom.
9. Tequila Sunrise Trash Can
This vibrant cocktail combines the colorful appeal of a Tequila Sunrise with the potent mix of a Trash Can drink. Start with ice in a tall glass, then add 2.5 oz of tequila and 5 oz of fresh orange juice.
Pour 1 oz of grenadine syrup slowly down the side of the glass to create the sunrise effect. Unlike the traditional Tequila Sunrise, this version gets an energy boost.
Add a splash of Blue Curaçao for color contrast and top with an energy drink. The result is a striking, layered cocktail that balances the fruity sweetness of a Tequila Sunrise with the energizing kick of a Trash Can.
10. Pacific Trash Can
The Pacific Trash Can brings tropical vibes to this powerful mixed drink. It features a blend of vodka, gin, rum, triple sec, and peach schnapps.
What makes this version special is the addition of blue curaçao, which gives it a beautiful ocean-blue color. The tropical fruit garnishes like lime, orange, and strawberry add freshness.
Pour the blue curaçao first, then add ice. Add equal parts of the other spirits (about 1/2 oz each). Top with an energy drink to give it fizz and extra kick.
Serve in a tall glass for the best presentation. This drink is perfect for summer parties when you want something refreshing but strong.
11. Hurricane Trash Can
The Hurricane Trash Can is a party favorite that combines elements of the classic Hurricane cocktail with the high-energy kick of a Trash Can drink.
This cocktail blends fruit punch or cherry Kool-Aid with pineapple juice for a tropical base. Add equal parts vodka, rum, and gin (about 8 ounces each).
For authentic Hurricane flavor, include passion fruit syrup and a splash of grenadine. Top with an energy drink like Red Bull for that signature Trash Can effect.
Serve in a large hurricane glass with plenty of ice and garnish with orange slices and cherries for a drink that’s perfect for Mardi Gras celebrations or summer parties.
12. Citrus Blast Trash Can
The Citrus Blast Trash Can is a bright, tangy take on the classic trash can cocktail. This refreshing drink combines multiple spirits with zesty citrus flavors for a bold taste experience.
Start by filling a tall glass with ice. Add 1 oz each of vodka, gin, white rum, and triple sec. Pour in 1/2 oz of Blue Curaçao for color and citrus notes.
Add a splash of sweet and sour mix, then squeeze in fresh lemon and lime juice. Top with lemon-lime soda or citrus energy drink for fizz.
Garnish with a slice of lemon, lime, or orange. The result is a bright blue drink with intense citrus flavor that packs a serious punch.
13. Miami Vice Trash Can
The Miami Vice Trash Can combines the tropical flavors of a traditional Miami Vice with the strong punch of a Trash Can cocktail. This drink mixes rum, vodka, and coconut rum for a powerful base.
To make this cocktail, start by adding blue curaçao to the bottom of a tall glass filled with ice. Pour in vodka, strawberry vodka, regular rum, and coconut rum (Malibu works great).
Add pineapple juice and coconut milk for the classic Miami Vice flavor profile. Top with an energy drink for the signature Trash Can kick.
The result is a colorful, potent drink that brings beach vibes to your party. Perfect for summer gatherings!
14. Hawaiian Punch Trash Can
Hawaiian Punch Trash Can drink is a potent party favorite. This big-batch cocktail combines Everclear, vodka, and Hawaiian Punch with fresh fruit for a sweet, refreshing taste.
To make this drink, mix 16 oz of Everclear and 16 oz of vodka with 160 oz (about 5 gallons) of Hawaiian Punch. Add sliced strawberries, grapes, watermelon, and orange slices for extra flavor.
Despite its sweet taste, be careful with this punch. The fruit juice masks the strong alcohol content, making it deceptively powerful.
You can serve this in a clean trash can lined with a new bag for large gatherings, or scale down the recipe for smaller parties.
15. Sea Breeze Trash Can
The Sea Breeze Trash Can offers a tropical twist on the classic trash can cocktail. This refreshing drink combines the fruity flavors of the Sea Breeze with the potent mix of multiple spirits.
Start by filling your glass with ice. Add 1.5 oz vodka as your base spirit. Pour in 3 oz cranberry juice and a splash of grapefruit juice for that signature Sea Breeze flavor.
For the trash can element, add smaller amounts of coconut rum, peach schnapps, and blue curaçao. Top with a small amount of energy drink for fizz and sweetness.
Garnish with a lime wheel, pineapple slice, or cherry for a tropical touch. This colorful cocktail is perfect for summer parties.
16. Sweet and Sour Trash Can
This vibrant cocktail balances sweetness with tangy flavors. To make a Sweet and Sour Trash Can, you’ll need vodka, rum, gin, tequila, and sweet and sour mix.
Pour 1/2 oz each of vodka, rum, gin, and tequila into a tall glass filled with ice. Add about 2 oz of sweet and sour mix and stir gently.
For extra flair, top with a splash of Blue Curaçao to create a beautiful blue-green color. Garnish with a lemon or lime wheel.
This drink is perfect for parties and has a refreshing taste despite its potent alcohol content. Always drink responsibly.
17. Sunset Trash Can
The Sunset Trash Can is a vibrant variation of the classic trash can cocktail with a tropical twist. It features a colorful gradient appearance that mimics a sunset.
To make this drink, start with blue curaçao at the bottom of a tall glass filled with ice. Then add equal parts of vodka, rum, gin, and tequila (about 1/2 oz each).
Mix in 1 oz of peach schnapps and 1 oz of grenadine to create the sunset effect. The grenadine will sink to create red-orange tones at the bottom.
Top with an energy drink or orange juice and garnish with an orange slice. The result is not only visually stunning but also packs a punch.
18. Lemonade Trash Can
The Lemonade Trash Can is a refreshing party punch that combines sweet and tart flavors. This drink is perfect for summer gatherings and can serve many guests at once.
To make it, you’ll need lemonade as your base, vodka for a kick, and Sprite or 7Up to add fizz. Some recipes include gin and mezcal for extra punch.
Add blueberries or other berries to give it color and flavor. The fruit will soak up the alcohol and become a tasty treat as well.
For a stronger version, some people add Everclear, but you can adjust the alcohol content to your preference. Serve it cold with plenty of ice.
19. Strawberry Daiquiri Trash Can
The Strawberry Daiquiri Trash Can puts a fruity twist on the traditional trash can cocktail. This vibrant drink combines the tropical flavors of rum with sweet strawberries for a refreshing experience.
To make this cocktail, blend rum, lime juice, frozen strawberries, and sugar together. Some variations include adding Malibu coconut rum for a tropical touch. Fresh strawberries can also be added for extra flavor.
Pour Blue Curaçao at the bottom of a tall glass filled with ice. Then add your strawberry daiquiri mixture. Top with a splash of energy drink for the signature trash can effect.
Garnish with a strawberry on the rim for a finishing touch that looks as good as it tastes.
20. Mango Madness Trash Can
This fruity variation of the classic Trash Can drink adds a tropical twist with mango flavor. You’ll need vodka, gin, rum, triple sec, and peach schnapps as the base alcohols.
Add fresh mango puree or mango liqueur to give it that distinctive fruity taste. Blue curaçao provides the classic blue color that makes this drink recognizable.
Pour the blue curaçao first, then add ice and the other liquors. Top with an energy drink for that signature fizz and vibrant look.
For extra tropical flair, garnish with a mango slice and serve in a tall glass. This refreshing cocktail is perfect for summer gatherings or beach parties.
21. Coconut Cream Trash Can
The Coconut Cream Trash Can is a tropical twist on the classic trash can cocktail. This refreshing drink combines coconut cream with traditional spirits for a smooth, creamy experience.
Start with 1.5 oz coconut cream and 0.5 oz cream of coconut as your base. Add 0.25 oz agave and 0.5 oz fresh lime juice for a perfect balance of sweet and tart.
Mix in 0.5 oz orange liqueur and your choice of white rum. Pour over ice in a tall glass. You can garnish with a pineapple wedge or lime wheel.
This cocktail works well for summer gatherings or anytime you want a taste of the tropics.
Mixology Techniques for Trash Can Drinks
Creating the perfect Trash Can drink requires skill and understanding of how different alcohols work together. The right techniques can transform multiple spirits into a balanced, enjoyable cocktail rather than an overwhelming mix.
Balancing Flavors
The key to a good Trash Can drink is balancing strong alcohols with sweeter elements. Start with equal parts of each spirit—typically 1/2 oz each of vodka, rum, gin, and a liqueur like Peach Schnapps.
The Irish Trash Can gets its bright green color from blue curaçao mixed with the yellow tones of other spirits. This creates a visually appealing layered effect.
When adding Red Bull or other energy drinks, pour it last and slowly. This creates the distinctive “trash can” appearance with the can tipped into the drink.
Use ice strategically—fill the glass about 2/3 with ice before adding alcohol to ensure proper dilution and temperature.
Choosing the Right Spirits
Quality matters even in mixed drinks. For vodka, choose a clean, neutral brand that won’t overwhelm other flavors.
Your gin selection impacts the final taste significantly—a London Dry works well for a classic taste, while floral gins create more complex flavors.
For rum, white rum provides sweetness without adding color. Avoid dark or spiced rums unless you’re creating a variation.
Blue curaçao is essential for the traditional color, but triple sec can substitute if needed.
Consider using flavored vodkas for creative variations—peach or berry vodkas pair well with the traditional mix.
History of Trash Can Drinks
Trash can drinks have become party staples in bars and college gatherings across America. These potent, colorful beverages combine multiple spirits with energy drinks for a high-octane experience.
Origin and Evolution
Trash can drinks first appeared in the early 2000s in college towns across the United States. The original concept came from bartenders looking to create attention-grabbing drinks that would stand out in crowded bars.
The distinctive presentation—featuring an upturned energy drink can—gave the cocktail its memorable name. Early versions typically contained vodka, gin, rum, tequila, and blue curaçao.
Over time, regional variations emerged. The Irish Trash Can, recognizable by its bright green color, became particularly popular. This variant uses Irish whiskey and additional green liqueurs to create its distinctive hue.
By the 2010s, trash can drinks had evolved from college novelties to mainstream bar offerings. Bartenders began experimenting with premium ingredients and balanced flavor profiles to elevate the drink beyond its reputation as merely a quick route to intoxication.
Cultural Significance
Trash can drinks symbolize celebration and social bonding in American drinking culture. Their theatrical presentation makes them perfect for social media sharing. Often, they are served in oversized glasses with the energy drink can visible.
You’ll often find these drinks at milestone celebrations like 21st birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, and college graduations. They’ve become ritualistic markers of these special occasions.
The trash can drink represents the “work hard, play hard” mentality prevalent in American culture. The caffeine content from the energy drink combined with multiple spirits creates a unique experience that keeps partiers energized while consuming alcohol.
Despite criticism from health experts about combining alcohol with energy drinks, trash can cocktails remain popular. They’ve transcended their college origins to become established offerings at bars across the country.
