Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Thoroughly chill all ingredients before mixing to maintain maximum fizz and enhance glow intensity.
- Gently combine the tonic water and lemonade in a pitcher or directly into individual glasses, using a light touch to preserve carbonation.
- Add ice cubes to each glass to keep the drinks cool and prolong the glowing effect.
- For adult versions, add 1-1½ oz of gin or vodka per serving if desired.
- For a green "Witch's Brew" variation, use limeade instead of lemonade and add a small splash of riboflavin-fortified sports drink.
- Garnish with lemon or lime wheels if desired, which will create glowing edges under blacklight.
- Dim the regular lights and position your blacklight near the drinks to reveal their vibrant blue glow.
Notes
For the most dramatic effect, serve in a completely darkened room with only the blacklight for illumination. The quinine in tonic water is what creates the fluorescent glow—regular club soda or seltzer won't work.
This drink can easily be scaled up for larger gatherings by maintaining the 3:1 ratio of tonic water to lemonade. For an extra atmospheric touch, place glasses on a tray with a separate bowl of water containing dry ice to create rolling fog effects (never put dry ice directly in drinks).
Store any leftover mixture covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, though the carbonation will gradually diminish over time.