Following the successful launch of the Baja Blast Summer Series in Chicago, fans of the iconic Mountain Dew flavor are now able to replicate the event’s signature cocktail menu at home. The series, which debuted at Moonlight Studios, featured a curated selection of drinks developed in collaboration with 1800 Tequila to highlight the tropical profile of the soda.
The event, which showcased a live performance by Latin trap artist Dei V, centered on four distinct Baja Blast-infused cocktails. While the Chicago event has concluded, organizers have confirmed that the Baja Blast Summer Series will continue with an upcoming stop in Los Angeles in mid-August, featuring a headline performance by De La Rose.
Recreating the Baja Blast Summer Series Menu
The cocktail program designed for the series focuses on balancing the sweetness of Mountain Dew Baja Blast with the clean, agave-forward profile of 1800 Tequila and other spirits. For those looking to host their own themed gathering, the following recipes offer a way to recreate the specific flavor combinations served at the Chicago kickoff.
The Mountain Dew Baja-Rita
The Baja-Rita serves as a fizzy, tropical take on the classic margarita. To prepare this drink, you will need:
- Salt for the rim
- Ice
- 1 oz 1800 Tequila
- ½ oz orange liqueur
- 1 oz fresh-squeezed lime juice
- 1 oz simple syrup
- 4 oz Mountain Dew Baja Blast
To assemble, salt the rim of your glass and fill it with ice. Combine the tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake thoroughly, strain into the prepared glass, and top with the Baja Blast.
Mango Baja Splash
This variation incorporates savory elements to complement the fruit-forward ingredients. The ingredients include:
- Chamoy and Tajín for the rim
- Ice
- 1.5 oz 1800 Blanco Tequila
- 1 oz mango purée
- ¾ oz fresh lime juice
- ¼ oz agave
- 2.5 oz Mountain Dew Baja Blast
- Mango spear and lime wheel for garnish
Coat the rim of a highball glass with chamoy and roll it in Tajín. Fill the glass with fresh ice. Combine the tequila, mango purée, lime juice, and agave in a shaker with ice until the exterior is cold to the touch. Strain into the glass and top with Baja Blast, finishing with the mango and lime garnish.
The Baja Wave
While the menu highlights tequila, the Baja Wave utilizes vodka to create a crisp, refreshing profile. The recipe requires:
- Ice
- 1.5 oz vodka
- 1 oz fresh pineapple juice
- ½ oz fresh lime juice
- ¼ oz mint syrup
- 2.5 oz Mountain Dew Baja Blast
- Pineapple frond, mint sprig, and lime wheel for garnish
Combine the vodka, pineapple juice, lime juice, and mint syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake until chilled, then strain into a highball glass filled with fresh ice. Top with Baja Blast and garnish with the pineapple, mint, and lime.
What to Expect at the Upcoming Los Angeles Event
The Baja Blast Summer Series is scheduled to head to Los Angeles in mid-August. As the series moves to the West Coast, headliner De La Rose is expected to perform. Attendees of previous events have noted that the cocktail menu is a primary focus of the experience, and organizers suggest arriving prepared for the beverage program, which mirrors the collaborative efforts seen in Chicago.
For those unable to attend the live performances, the suggested pairings—specifically playing tracks from performers like Dei V—are intended to help recreate the atmosphere of the event. Official updates regarding the mid-August Los Angeles date and venue details will be released through the series’ official channels as the event approaches.
Are you planning to try these recipes at home? Let us know which Baja Blast cocktail is your favorite in the comments below.